UDPATE – The Gaston County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call that came in just after 12 PM Tuesday afternoon, reporting a possible explosive device near the courthouse parking area.
The Gastonia Police Department’s Bomb Team also responded to a report of a suspicious package on Mauney Ave., northeast of downtown Gastonia. Following a brief investigation, the package was cleared and there was no danger to the public.
As a precaution, an evacuation was ordered of all courthouse buildings and the Bomb Team conducted a thorough search using bomb detection dogs and equipment. The area was confirmed safe and the all-clear was given just before 3 PM.
Both incidents remain under investigation.
GASTONIA, N.C. – Gaston County Courthouse and the Gaston County Department of Social Services building were evacuated following a threat Tuesday afternoon and will remain closed to the public and staff for the rest of the day.
The Gaston County Communications Office confirmed there had been threat without further information, though local reports and scanner activity suggested it was a bomb threat.
Local residents are asked to stay away from the Courthouse, DSS buildings, and adjacent parking lots while police activity continues.
The Gaston County Board of Commissioners meeting, which was scheduled for 6 PM in the Harley B. Gaston Public Forum inside the Gaston County Courthouse, has been canceled.
