A Chrysler Building bomb scare triggered a security operation in Midtown Manhattan on Tuesday after police found a suspicious suitcase near the landmark. The building was partly evacuated while bomb squad officers checked the luggage.
The event occurred near the United Nations headquarters, where world leaders were gathered for the annual UN General Assembly. During the diplomatic function, security measures in the vicinity were strengthened.
Just before 3 p.m., police discovered the luggage on a sidewalk near East 43rd Street and Third Avenue. An NYPD canine unit in the region identified the suitcase as possibly suspicious, prompting officials to dispatch expert teams.
Chrysler Building Bomb Scare Brings Police and Federal Response
The NYPD dispatched bomb squad officers and emergency care personnel to the scene. Federal authorities, including the US Secret Service and the FBI, reacted while cops guarded the surrounding area.
Police momentarily limited pedestrian traffic and closed the roadways between 42nd and 44th Streets. Officers closed the area from Lexington Avenue to Second Avenue as they checked the luggage.
As a precaution, officials evacuated the Chrysler Building’s first five levels. People on the lower floors of the renowned New York landmark were impacted as police conducted security checks.
The work also created short delays for pedestrians and automobiles in Midtown. Officers kept the area protected as the bomb squad investigated if the luggage presented any threat.
Suspicious Suitcase Cleared After 90 Minutes
The bomb squad searched the suitcase and discovered no explosives. The NYPD later stated that the box had been cleared and was not suspicious.
The security limitations remained in effect while authorities finished their inspections. Access to the building and surrounding streets was restored around 90 minutes after the original notice.
There were no reported injuries from the event.
The security reaction occurred when New York was hosting the UN General Assembly, which brought many international leaders and diplomatic delegations to the city. Because of its location and the increased security around the United Nations compound, the suspicious bag was handled with caution.
