Bomb threat forces evacuation of American Dream mall on Black Friday

American Dream megamall and entertainment complex in East Rutherford, N.J., finally opened on October 25, 2019, after more than 17 years in the making. However, shortly after its opening, the mall was evacuated due to a bomb threat on Black Friday.

Law enforcement received a call about a bomb inside the American Dream mall shortly after it opened at 7 a.m. This prompted the New Jersey State Police to evacuate the facility and conduct a thorough search. After a sweep by the bomb and K-9 units, no explosive devices were found, and the mall was reopened around 9:15 a.m.

In a statement, American Dream said, “The mall has been deemed safe and American Dream will be returning to normal operations. This is still an active investigation and there is no additional information available.”

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy also posted about the evacuation, urging shoppers to follow law enforcement instructions and ensure their safety during the holiday season.

The bomb threat occurred on the busiest shopping day of the year, adding to the unique risks that retailers face during this time. The presence of large crowds and the potential for conflicts and stampedes make it a challenging day for retailers. This is further compounded by the recent rise in mass shooting events, making safety a top priority for retail establishments.

Despite the evacuation, American Dream expressed its commitment to providing a joyous and safe holiday season for its employees and guests.

In conclusion, the bomb threat at American Dream mall on Black Friday highlighted the security challenges faced by retailers during the holiday season. The swift evacuation and subsequent reopening underscored the importance of prioritizing safety for all those visiting and working at the mall.