A suspect is in custody after White River Medical Center received a bomb threat earlier this evening.
In a post on the White River Health System Facebook page, WRHS reported no device was found during a search of the building.
Out of an abundance of caution, the building is secured by the Batesville Police Department and WRMC Security until a search by bomb specialists can be completed, the post said.
“We want to thank the employees on duty tonight for ensuring our patients were well cared for throughout this incident. Due to the professional and immediate response by the Batesville Police Department a suspect is in custody. We appreciate the response by law enforcement and our security team to ensure the safety of our patients and employees,” the post read.
EARLIER:
Hospital in Lockdown After Report of Bomb Threat
White River Medical Center was on lockdown Wednesday evening after getting a report about a bomb threat, authorities said.
According to Batesville Police Chief Alan Cockrill, no one is being allowed into the hospital unless it is an absolute emergency and authorities are not allowing ambulance transfer and are diverting ambulances.
Crews are searching all public areas on each floor and have requested two bomb dogs from central Arkansas to help with the search.
Cockrill said the investigation is ongoing and that authorities cannot evacuate the hospital.
White River Now will continue to follow this developing story.
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather every weekday morning and afternoon from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3. White River Now updates are also aired weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5.
