Fake Bomb Found Near NYC Marathon Finish Line, Causing Police Response

Fake Bomb Scare Near NYC Marathon Finish Line

A fake or hoax suspicious device was found in Central Park near the finish line of the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon, leading to a large police response Friday morning. The device was discovered on a picnic table near West 68th Street and West Drive shortly after 9 a.m., prompting authorities to call in the bomb squad.

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The NYPD's Emergency Service Unit was called to the scene and set up a perimeter. Thankfully, after an investigation, the device was deemed a fake or hoax and inoperable. An all-clear was sounded around 11 a.m.

The incident comes as heightened security measures are in place ahead of the marathon on Sunday, with around 50,000 runners expected to participate.

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While the incident caused traffic delays and road closures, thankfully there was no real threat to public safety.