Officials in Albuquerque, New Mexico, responded on Monday to reports of an active shooter and possible hostage situation at City Hall-- an incident they now say was likely a hoax.
Albuquerque Police reportedly surrounded the downtown building and conducted a floor-by-floor search after getting a flood of frantic calls.
While police originally said an active shooter was reported at City Council, they then tweeted that there was no evidence of an active shooter and were working to confirm if there was a hostage situation.
At this point in time, there is no evidence of an active shooter. Trying to confirm if there's an active hostage situation. SWAT searching
— Albuquerque Police (@ABQPOLICE) June 14, 2016
The police department later tweeted that one individual was detained and being questioned. According to the Associated Press, Albuquerque Police spokesman Tanner Tixier said investigators believe that person was "the initiator" who spurred calls from employees inside the building.
SWAT officers continue their systematic search. One individual has been detained and is being questioned. No info yet on his role.
— Albuquerque Police (@ABQPOLICE) June 14, 2016
Police had apparently received calls that a man was running through the halls and yelling that there was a shooter in the building.
Despite speculations that the incident was a hoax, officials weren't taking any chances.
"We're going to make sure we do a very thorough and systematic search. We're going to make sure we don't miss anybody in any offices that may be hiding," Tixier said.
