MPD responds to suspected swatting hoax at Henry Vilas Zoo

The Madison Police Department responded after a threat of violence was made against the Henry Vilas Zoo.

Officers were dispatched to the zoo around 1:40 p.m. on Thursday.

The threat was made over the phone. This is believed to be a swatting incident.

Zoo staff made the decision to evacuate and close the zoo for the remainder of Thursday.

We thank zoo staff for their help with this investigation and their swift response with contacting law enforcement.

Zoos across the country have experienced similar swatting incidents in recent months.