TRAVERSE CITY — Authorities responded on Tuesday evening after receiving a call claiming a shooting had occurred outside the Walmart off South Airport Road.
The Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office said the call came from an automated voice reporting a deadly incident. Officers and EMS staged around the area, but upon arrival, no victims or evidence of a shooting were found.
Officials say the incident appears to be a “swatting” attempt, a dangerous prank in which false emergency reports are made to prompt a large law enforcement response.
The store briefly closed during the response, and police worked to ensure the safety of customers and staff. No injuries were reported.
The sheriff’s office reminds the public that swatting is illegal and can result in serious criminal charges.