The Democratic National Convention was hit by a security threat Tuesday as police investigated multiple bomb threats in downtown Chicago.
Several hotels near the convention reported receiving statements that prompted police searches.
The threats said pipe bombs had been placed at the Chicago West Loop Hotel and the Hyatt House Chicago. Fox 32 reported.
Officers also searched the Nobu Hotel.
The Democratic National Convention was hit by a security threat Tuesday as police investigated multiple bomb threats in downtown Chicago.
Police investigate ‘anti-Semitic’ statements and warnings about placing homemade bombs in hotels
Additional security fencing and a sign prohibiting drones from flying have been added to the perimeter next to Park #578, located north of the United Center near where the Democratic National Convention is being held.
Police cars near where bomb threats were made in Chicago
The threats mentioned the four-day Democratic National Convention at the United Center and made “anti-Semitic statements.”
The city is already on alert with a massive police presence and thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters turning up every day.
There were also at least nine shootings on Monday in a city that has been plagued by gun violence.
US President Joe Biden speaks on the first day of the Democratic National Convention
On Monday, dozens of protesters broke through a security fence near the convention’s opening day.
It came as thousands of people took to the streets to voice their opposition to the war in Gaza.
Families with babies in strollers, students, elected leaders and others holding signs and flags joined the march to the United Center, where the convention is being held, to call for a cease-fire.
As the larger group marched peacefully, a few dozen people who broke away tore down pieces of the security fence.
Several protesters who managed to break through the fence were detained and handcuffed by police.
Pro-Palestinian rally at the Democratic National Convention
Officers put on gas masks as some protesters tried to tear down a second fence set up in front of the police.
Authorities said the internal security perimeter surrounding the convention site was not breached and there was no threat to convention attendees.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said some of the protesters who tore down the fence threw water bottles and other items at police.
Police de-escalated the situation without using batons or chemicals, he said.
“When people infiltrate a crowd and want to commit acts of violence or vandalism, we’re going to stop them,” Snelling said.
“We will not tolerate anyone who vandalizes things in our city.”
