What to Know
- American Dream Mall, the massive shopping and entertainment destination located in northern New Jersey, reopened after it was evacuated due to a bomb threat on the morning of Black Friday.
- NJSP said they received the threat shortly after 7 a.m., prompting the evacuation.
- Although, a few hours later the situation was deemed safe, the investigation is ongoing, police said.
American Dream Mall, the massive shopping and entertainment destination located in northern New Jersey, reopened after it was evacuated due to a bomb threat on the morning of Black Friday.
In a post on X, formally known as Twitter, Gov. Phil Murphy said that New Jersey State Police were investigating the threat and everyone should evacuate "out of an abundance of caution."
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American Dream, located in East Rutherford, next to MetLife Stadium, is a retail and entertainment destination that features indoor amusement parks, restaurants and over 100 stores, including luxury brands.
A public safety alert from New Jersey State Police was sent out Friday morning urging everyone in the mall, including employees, to evacuate.
About an hour later, police gave an all clear saying that the situation was resolved and the facility is safe.
News
In a statement, the NJSP said: "At approximately 7:13 am an individual relayed information that there was a bomb inside of American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, Bergen County. Out of an abundance of caution the mall was evacuated. The New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit and K-9 unit performed sweeps of the mall for explosive devices and none were found. 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."
Among those evacuated were also football fans since the neighboring MetLife was about to host tailgaters for the Jets - Dolphins game.
In a subsequent X post, Murphy said the mall was reopened after law enforcement determined there was "no imminent threat," but that officials will continue to "remain vigilant to ensure everyone stays safe this holiday season."
Following the evacuation and re-opening, the mall issued a statement on the situation: "American Dream was evacuated this morning following what was later deemed a non-credible threat. This was done out of an abundance of caution, as the safety of our employees and guests is and will always be our priority. The center has already re-opened. We look forward to a joyous and safe holiday season."
