Fort Pierce, FL – A Fort Pierce hospital was partially evacuated after receiving the fourth emailed bomb threat reported on the Treasure Coast in less than two weeks.
Police learned shortly before 11 a.m. Saturday that an email allegedly claimed two bombs had been placed inside HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital.
The Fort Pierce Police Department responded and partially evacuated the facility while officers searched the two areas identified in the message.
A hospital spokesperson said patient care continued without interruption, although visitors were required to wait outside during the inspection.
Police completed an extensive search of the hospital and found no suspicious items or explosive devices.
Authorities determined the threat was not credible and issued an all-clear shortly after 3:30 p.m.
Investigators said the email resembled recent threats sent to Indian River State College and two Treasure Coast high schools.
Indian River State College’s Massey Campus in Fort Pierce was evacuated earlier in the week.
Fort Pierce Central High School and Martin County High School also experienced similar law enforcement responses.
Nothing dangerous was discovered at any of the campuses.
Police are examining the four incidents together because of similarities among the emailed messages, but authorities have not confirmed that the same person allegedly sent them.
Fort Pierce police are working with the FBI to identify the source. Investigators may use electronic records, internet protocol information and subpoenas to trace the sender.
No suspect had been identified or arrested.
Florida law classifies electronic threats involving death, bodily injury, mass shootings or terrorism as second-degree felonies.
A conviction can carry a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.
The investigation remains active.