New York's Times Square 'SHUT DOWN by police investigating BOMB THREATS'
TWO POSSIBLE bombs have been located in Times Square, Manhattan, reportedly within 50 feet of each other.
Times Square DESERTED after suspicious packages found
Witnesses claim police have shut down Times Square and multiple roads while investigations take place.
The NYPD bomb squad have arrived on the scene.
Bomb threat
Times Square blocked off after two suspicious devices were found in the area. https://t.co/JbFkDuC7vz pic.twitter.com/LqTNQeWtv5
— NYC EMS Watch (@NYCEMSwatch) May 1, 2017
The suspicious packages were found in the popular tourist area at 04:20am BST (11:20pm ET).
Sixth, Seventh and Eighth avenues were shut down to vehicles and pedestrians between 42nd and 45th streets.
A closer look at the NYPD Bomb Squad working the scene in an empty Times Square near the Times Square NYPD station. pic.twitter.com/fbqSsj8V7W
— NYC EMS Watch (@NYCEMSwatch) May 1, 2017
Times Square is empty for blocks as the NYPD Bomb Squad continues to work. pic.twitter.com/C7ngqHE9js
— NYC EMS Watch (@NYCEMSwatch) May 1, 2017
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At 05:30 BST (12:30am ET), police reported the packages have been deemed safe and cleared away. Roads are now expected to re-open.
Early reports suggest the threat was issued due to two bags or suitcases.