Ex-Memorial Sloan Kettering Employee Detained After Bomb Scare

The incident closed York Avenue for nearly three hours as authorities investigated the threat.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:23am

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A former employee of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center was detained for a mental health evaluation after a bomb scare at the cancer center on Saturday. Security personnel identified a potential threat in the lobby and called the police, who shut down York Avenue while investigating a bag the former employee had left with a note saying it contained a bomb. The bag was deemed non-hazardous, and the area was reopened shortly after 3 p.m.

Why it matters

Bomb threats can cause significant disruption and fear in the community, especially at sensitive locations like hospitals. This incident highlights the importance of vigilant security measures and quick response by authorities to ensure public safety.

The details

According to reports, a 39-year-old former Memorial Sloan Kettering employee walked into the cancer center's lobby around noon on Saturday and left a bag with a note saying it contained a bomb. The center's security team identified the potential threat and called the police, who shut down York Avenue to investigate the bag. After determining the bag was non-hazardous, the area was reopened around 3 p.m. The former employee was taken into custody for a mental health evaluation, but authorities have not released his identity.

  • The incident occurred around noon on Saturday, March 15, 2026.
  • York Avenue was closed for nearly three hours while authorities investigated the threat.
  • The area was reopened shortly after 3 p.m. on Saturday.

The players

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

A renowned cancer treatment and research institution located in New York City.

NYPD

The New York City Police Department, which responded to the bomb threat and investigated the scene.

39-year-old former employee

The individual who brought the bag with a note claiming it contained a bomb into the cancer center's lobby.

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What they’re saying

“The situation was quickly contained. No injuries were reported, and the NYPD has issued the all-clear.”

— Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (Twitter)

What’s next

Authorities will likely continue their investigation into the former employee's motives and mental state to determine if any charges will be filed.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant security measures and quick response by authorities to address potential threats, especially at sensitive locations like hospitals, in order to ensure public safety.