Bomb Threat Hoax Forces Evacuation of Ballinger Walmart

BALLINGER, TX — A male suspect called the Walmart in Ballinger on Thursday night, threatening to enter the store with a gun, shoot people, and detonate a pipe bomb, leading police to evacuate customers and sweep the building, authorities stated.

No explosives or weapons were found, and the store was cleared without incident. 

According to a Ballinger Police Department media release, the call came in at about 9 p.m. Feb. 5. The suspect claimed he was five minutes away, said bombs were already inside the store, and demanded $1,000 on a gift card, saying he needed the money for a new baby he had just had. He eventually hung up. 

One officer spoke with the caller while another officer and an off-duty firefighter secured the entrance. Additional officers arrived, secured the parking lot, and evacuated customers safely. After a thorough search of the building, patrons were allowed to re-enter, and employees resumed normal operations. 

The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the suspect is asked to contact the Ballinger Police Department at 325-365-3591.