False Bomb Threat Made At Upper West Side Synagogue: NYPD

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — A person made a fake bomb threat at an Upper West Side synagogue over the weekend, according to police.

Rodeph Sholom, located on West 83rd Street between Columbus Avenue and Central Park West, was asked to follow an evacuation shortly after 3 p.m. on Saturday following an emailed bomb threat.

The threat was sent to multiple synagogues throughout the city, an NYPD spokesperson said.

A subsequent search by NYPD officers turned up no threats or anything suspicious, officials said.

"The NYPD 20th Precinct asked us to evacuate the building as a precaution," a spokesperson from Rodeph Sholom wrote on social media. "We are grateful for the response from the NYPD, who, in partnership with our professional security team, completed a thorough investigation of the situation."

No injuries were reported and an investigation remains ongoing, officials said.

"Sadly, threats to Jewish institutions across the country have increased and this afternoon’s threat was part of an ongoing, broader effort," the UWS congregation’s spokesperson said.

At this time, it's uncertain whether the threats are linked, and they are currently under investigation, according to the police.

In a statement, Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized that although the threats were ultimately deemed not credible, the city stands firm against anyone spreading fear and antisemitism.

"Those responsible must be held accountable for their despicable actions," Hochul said.

"Congregation Rodeph Sholom remains steadfast in our commitment to your safety and security. If additional relevant information becomes available, we will share it with you," the UWS congregation’s spokesperson added.