Hoax 911 Call Claims Armed Man At Downtown Clayton Business

CLAYTON, N.C. — A false 911 report claiming an armed man was planning to kill people prompted a large police response in downtown Clayton before authorities determined the call was a hoax.

According to Clayton Police, the incident began around 5:32 p.m. Friday, July 31, when Johnston County 911 received a call from someone claiming he was inside a white Jeep in the 400 block of East Main Street armed with an AR-15 rifle and a bomb. The caller allegedly threatened to kill civilians and police officers.

Officers quickly responded and searched the area but were unable to locate anyone matching the caller’s description. Police also found no signs of panic or disturbance among people in the area.

A short time later, Johnston County 911 received another call claiming the armed man had entered a nearby bar in downtown Clayton. Officers searched the business but again found no evidence of an armed suspect or any threat to the public.

Police determined the incident was a swatting call — a false emergency report intended to trigger a large law enforcement response.

Clayton Police Chief Greg Tart said swatting calls are especially dangerous because officers must respond immediately to what they believe is a credible, life-threatening emergency. He said responding officers are prepared to confront an armed suspect, creating an inherently dangerous situation, and the heavy police response can also cause alarm among citizens who witness it.

The incident occurred while a downtown event was underway, with numerous people gathered in the area.

Police said there was no threat to the public. The investigation into the source of the false 911 calls remains ongoing.