VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – The Virginia Beach Police Department announced Thursday that it is investigating an “overheard comment” regarding the Virginia Beach Municipal Center.
Building 2 of the Virginia Beach Municipal Center
Police say the comment was made to a city employee, who interpreted it as a possible threat. The employee then notified a sheriff’s deputy, who then contacted the police department.
Police said they have not found anything to substantiate a threat. No buildings were placed on lockdown.
On Friday police said, “investigators quickly identified the employee in question, conducted a thorough investigation, and determined that while the comment created fear and unease, no actual danger was posed to city officials or other workers at any time.”
A man was arrested and charged with one count of Disturbing the Peace and was released on bond.
The police department says they understand that “there is a heightened sense of concern for employees when they hear of such an investigation being conducted.”
The municipal center is where 12 city employees were shot and killed during the mass shooting on May 31, 2019. The shooting happened in Building 2.
Acting City Manager Tom Leahy issued the following statement to all city employees about the situation on Thursday:
The Virginia Beach Police Detective Bureau is investigating a report that an employee overheard another employee make a potential threat. At this point, they have found nothing credible and there is no need to lock down any buildings. While the investigation is continuing, the Police Department and the Sheriff’s Office will provide heightened security out of an abundance of caution.
I will send additional updates as more information becomes available.
Thank you.
