MADERA, Calif. (FOX26) — Valley Children’s Hospital has lifted the lockdown after no threat was found.
“The lockdown at Valley Children’s Hospital and across campus has been lifted based on guidance from our law enforcement partners,” said Public Relations Officer and Communications Director Zara Arboleda. “For now, only the Main and Emergency Department entrances are open at this time. We will continue to have an increased law enforcement presence on campus while we closely monitor the situation and continue to support the safety of our patients, families and team members.”
“Based on preliminary information, investigators believe the threats may have been intentionally fabricated. However, the investigation remains active and ongoing,” the Madera County Sheriff’s Office said. “We take every threat seriously. Regardless of whether a threat is ultimately determined to be credible, these incidents are thoroughly investigated. We remain committed to identifying those responsible and holding them accountable for their actions.”
Detectives are actively investigating the source of the phone call.
Valley Children’s Hospital was placed on lockdown around 11 a.m. after Madera police received a threatening phone call from a man who said he was going to the hospital with a rifle and a bomb.
Madera County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the hospital, and a California Highway Patrol helicopter circled the area as authorities searched for any danger.
“The safety and security of our patients, families and team members is our highest priority,” a hospital spokesperson said.
We are following well-established safety protocols and are working closely with law enforcement as they assess the situation.
No threat has been found.
