SALT LAKE CITY — Salt Lake City Police Department closed off streets late Sunday morning for what it called “a suspicious circumstance.” Hours later, it was confirmed to be a bomb threat at the King’s English Bookshop, which was scheduled to host a drag queen story time event.
A Salt Lake City K-9 certified in detecting explosive materials did not find anything in and near the building, according to a social media post. Officers closed 1500 East from Emerson Avenue to Kensington Street. The roads have since reopened, but the store remained closed Sunday.
A K9 from the Salt Lake City Police Department is checking out a ‘suspicious circumstance’ at The King’s English bookstore. (Salt Lake City Police Department)
Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall indicated in a social media post that the bookstore was the target of a threat.
“I cannot say this strongly enough, EVERYONE belongs in Salt Lake City. The actions today to cause fear at @KingsEnglish around a drag story time event are not welcome here,” her post said.
I cannot say this strongly enough, EVERYONE belongs in Salt Lake City. The actions today to cause fear at @KingsEnglish around a drag story time event are not welcome here.
We’re looking forward to working with King’s English so this event can happen at a future date for all…
— Mayor Erin Mendenhall (@slcmayor) September 24, 2023
