On the morning of Saturday, March 23, 2024, a pre-planned sweep of the Lancaster Public Library was taking place when two K-9s alerted their handlers to an unattended package. The package was addressed to a library staff member with a returned address to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The K-9 alerts prompted the response of the Pennsylvania State Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal. Additionally, there were some inconsistencies in the labeling that raised some suspicion as well.

It was later learned the staff member was expecting a package from the USDA containing coloring books. The package did contain the items listed by the staff member. Based on all the facts surrounding the package, we are not concerned that the package was placed there with any criminal intention, as the origin, contents, and recipient at the library were all verified.

There are a number of factors that could have triggered the K-9s’ alert to the package. Some of these reasons include but are not limited to, being stored in proximity to items or incidental contact with substances during shipping, which contain the chemical compounds the K-9s are trained to detect and respond to. It is protocol for our department to call the Pennsylvania State Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal once the K-9s have alerted. Our goal is always to keep everyone safe, especially during critical situations like this.

After the package was cleared by the Pennsylvania State Police, we received additional bomb threats targeting Lancaster Online | LNP, an LNP employee, as well as others outside of our jurisdiction. These threats prompted the evacuations in the areas of the 100 block of N. Lime St. and the 100 block of N. Queen St. Once it was deemed safe, K-9s were once again deployed to clear the scene. No explosive devices were found.

The Lancaster City Bureau of Police is currently coordinating with the District Attorney's Office in a thorough investigation into the bomb threats that were made over the weekend. Our priority remains the safety and security of our community, and we are dedicated to holding those responsible accountable. We urge anyone with information to come forward and assist us in our efforts by calling our station at 717-735-3300 or submitting an anonymous Crimewatch tip. We are exhausting all efforts to resolve this matter as quickly as possible. We understand the importance of transparency and will continue to provide updates when we can release more information.