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Bomb threat forces 300 to evacuate from Lathrop center
CRIME

Its business as usual today at Lathrop Business Park after a bomb-threat scare on Monday which prompted the evacuation of approximately 300 people. No injuries were reported, and no suspect was apprehended.

About three hours after the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office responded to the telephone threat, the Business Park was cleared by the Explosive Ordinance Disposal team and the Port of Stockton Police detection canine which thoroughly checked the area.

South Harlan Road on the west side of the business park remained open to regular vehicle traffic, but all entrances into the contained commercial area were closed.

Business Performance, a collection agency, received the phone call at approximately 11:25 a.m., according to Sheriff’s Public Information Officer Andrea Lopez in a live videotape update report posted on the Sheriff’s official Facebook page. All were directed to this social media site for the latest updates.

This is still an open investigation so no further information is available at this time, the official announcement also stated.

The Lathrop-Manteca Fire District was at the site as well to assist the other first responders units.

Following the incident, the Sheriff’s Office posted the following message to the public: “We treat every threat as credible until we determine otherwise. These types of threats should be taken seriously. We recommend contacting law enforcement and evacuate the premises.”

Concerned relatives and friends flooded the Sheriff’s Facebook page posting more than 250 messages and prayers that their loved ones were all right. Others extended prayers also for, and their thanks to, all emergency personnel who responded to the bomb threat.

“Please, God, watch over everyone,” wrote Soy Valero Golde.

“Thanks for keeping us safe!!!” was the message from Jesus Garcia to the emergency personnel.

“Be safe, officers involved,” added Brian Girsch.

Lathrop Business Park is located just east of Interstate 5, and south of West Louise Avenue. Fronting the Business Park on Louise Avenue are fast food restaurants and a gas station.