Columbus Zoo Evacuated Again Due to Safety Threat

On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Columbus Zoo faced its second safety threat in a week, leading to an immediate evacuation of guests and staff. The threat, reported via a phone call to the zoo's call center, cited a potential active shooter. This incident follows a similar threat on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Zoo officials, in coordination with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office, decided to evacuate the premises as a precautionary measure. Law enforcement is currently on-site, securing the area and conducting a thorough assessment. The Columbus Zoo will remain closed for the rest of the day.

This event is part of a series of similar threats targeting zoos across multiple states, including Ohio, Colorado and Kentucky. These incidents raise concerns about public safety at public venues and the potential for coordinated malicious activities. Zoos in Akron, Toledo, Cleveland, Denver and Louisville also received threatening phone calls but later resumed operations.

Updates will be shared as more information becomes available. Stay with 10TV & ABC6 for more updates.

Yes, all guests, staff, and animals are reported to be safe.

The zoo will remain closed for the remainder of the day while authorities assess the situation. Updates will be provided as they become available.

The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is on-site, working with zoo security teams to maintain a secured perimeter and investigate the threat.

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