DPD: No threat after "false alert" at Decatur Civic Center

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A rush of police to the Decatur Civic Center Tuesday night was due to a false alert, according to the Decatur Police Department.

The department said an internal alert system at the civic center offices alerted to a "possible active shooter situation."

DPD said civic center staff reported the alert to 911 dispatchers who sent several police officers to the building.

It happened shortly before 6 p.m.

Police said the building was secured. In a Facebook post, DPD said the incident was determined to be a "false alert." There was never a threat at the building.

It is not clear what triggered the false alert. Police said they are investigating.

A WAND viewer said there were children skating at the time of the police response. Several people on social media said the quick arrival of police startled many at the building.

This is a developing story.

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