The Gatlinburg Police Department, working with multiple regional agencies, conducted a comprehensive search of both the interior and exterior of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies following a bomb threat reported on Monday afternoon. No credible threat or explosive device was found during the operation, which involved K-9 units.

All roads around the aquarium have since reopened, and the investigation into the origin of the threat remains ongoing. Agencies that assisted included the Pigeon Forge Police Department, Blount County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson City Police Department, Cocke County Sheriff’s Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, and Tennessee Homeland Security Office.

The Gatlinburg Police Department expressed appreciation for the public’s patience and reiterated its commitment to community safety.