On January 27, 2017, at about 8:45p.m., Newport Police Officers were dispatched to the Walmart store at 160 NW 25th St. regarding a bomb threat. Store security reported a phone call from someone stating there were “bombs” placed in the store set to detonate at 9:00 p.m. Store security evacuated the building, moving everyone to the far south entrance of the parking area. Newport Police Officers blocked the entrances to prevent any further customers from coming onto the property. Store security stated the caller on the phone identified himself, and said the bombs were hidden inside the store. By 9:10 p.m., the “bombs” had not detonated.

At this point two Newport Police Officers entered the store to conduct a search; another Police Officer continued to block the parking area. After an extensive search, no destructive devices were located ; the store re-opened at about 9:30 p.m. Following a search of law enforcement databases and records, Police Officers determined the name given was fictitious. The store had not been able to obtain the phone number from which the subject had called. Anyone with information they wish to report is asked to contact Officer Hayden Randall at 541-574-3348. The Newport Police Tip line is available at 541 -574- 5455, or Text a Tip at 541-270-1856.