**Bomb Threat Evacuates American Dream Mall on Black Friday**
*By: [Author’s Name]*
The second largest mall in the United States, American Dream Mall in New Jersey, was evacuated shortly after opening its doors on Black Friday due to a bomb threat that was later found to be unfounded, according to authorities.
### The Bomb Threat
At around 7:13 a.m. ET, just minutes after American Dream opened for the highly anticipated shopping day, a person contacted police to report a bomb inside the facility. The New Jersey State Police evacuated the entire shopping center in order to conduct a thorough search of the premises.
### Safety First
The bomb and K-9 units of the New Jersey State Police conducted a sweep of the East Rutherford mall to ensure public safety and the absence of explosive devices. Fortunately, their search yielded no bomb, and the mall was declared safe to reopen at around 9:15 a.m. The spokesperson for the New Jersey State Police confirmed the bomb threat as a non-credible threat, and American Dream resumed normal operations.
### Mall’s Response
American Dream issued a statement, reassuring the public that the evacuation was carried out as a precautionary measure to prioritize the safety of employees and guests. The center promptly reopened after the search, emphasizing their commitment to a joyful and secure holiday season.
### Governor’s Response
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy posted updates on social media about the evacuation and subsequent reopening, urging shoppers to heed law enforcement instructions and exit the mall in an orderly manner. He emphasized the state’s vigilance in ensuring everyone’s safety during the holiday season, especially on such a critical shopping day.
### Shopping Risks
Black Friday poses unique risks to retailers due to the large crowds it draws, with past incidents of customer altercations and stampedes. The nationwide rise in mass shooting events at retail establishments has also heightened safety concerns. However, American Dream and authorities remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for all shoppers.
### Ensuring Safety
In light of the bomb threat evacuation, the incident serves as a reminder for retailers and law enforcement to remain vigilant during this busy shopping season. Despite potential risks, authorities are determined to ensure the safety and security of everyone at the mall and other retail establishments as the holiday season approaches.
### Conclusion
With the bomb threat incident behind them, American Dream Mall and New Jersey State Police are prepared to continue providing a safe and enjoyable shopping experience for all customers. The brief evacuation on Black Friday serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing public safety during the holiday season.