Ashland Police: Reported Walmart Threat Fully Investigated, Determined Unfounded
ASHLAND, OH — The Ashland Police Division has concluded its investigation into a reported threat that prompted the evacuation of the Ashland Walmart earlier this evening, determining that the information was not credible and posed no danger to the community.
According to an update released by the Ashland Police Division, officers thoroughly investigated the reported threat involving a customer at Walmart on East Main Street. After locating and interviewing the individual believed to be involved, police determined the threat was unfounded.
“All facts were reviewed with the Ashland Law Director and the Ashland County Prosecutor’s Office,” police stated. “No charges are warranted at this time.”
Lt. Aaron Kline of the Ashland Police Division emphasized that while the report ultimately proved unfounded, every threat is treated with the highest level of seriousness.
“The Ashland Police Division takes all reports of potential violence seriously,” Kline said. “Our officers responded immediately, secured the scene, and conducted a full investigation to ensure the safety of the public.”
The investigation followed a scary incident Tuesday evening that led to a rapid police response and the evacuation of shoppers after a 911 call reported a man making alarming statements inside the store.
“We got a call out to Walmart at 6:45 p.m.,” Lt. Kline said at the scene. “A customer had said the end of the world is coming. He has a gun. He can’t wait to start taking people out.”
Officers immediately cleared and searched the building while coordinating with Walmart staff to review surveillance footage. The individual was seen on the recorded video leaving the store with his wife and departing the area in a vehicle.
As a precaution, Ashland Police were joined by the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol in conducting an extensive search of the surrounding area, including nearby businesses, hotels, and gas stations.
Police later confirmed the individual was located and interviewed, and investigators found no evidence of a credible threat or ongoing safety concern.
“There are no safety concerns for the community related to this report,” the Ashland Police Division stated in its update.
Officials also urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unconfirmed rumors, noting that misinformation can unnecessarily heighten fear during active investigations.
The Ashland Police Division thanked the public for its cooperation and reiterated that swift action, thorough investigation, and public safety remain the department’s top priorities.
