Times Square reopens after suspicious package deemed non-hazardous, police say

Times Square partially shut down over suspicious package

Times Square was shut down Monday as the New York City Police Department investigated a possible suspicious package. 

Police later said the package was deemed “non-hazardous,” and streets in the area have reopened. 

Times Square evacuated over suspicious package

The NYPD said police received a call around 10:30 a.m. for a possible suspicious package at West 43rd Street and Seventh Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Investigators said they were looking for someone who dropped the package and then left.

The NYPD Bomb Squad responded, and police evacuated part of the popular tourist destination. Streets were shut down, and people were asked to avoid the area.

Chopper 2 flew overhead, where the typically bustling pedestrian plaza was empty, save for law enforcement officers.

Police gave the all-clear around noon, and the area began to reopen. 

“At the end of the day, for the greater good. At the end of the day, safety comes first,” tourist Kuli Dhesi said. 

“It’s a shame,” Long Island resident Mike Mercado said. “Times Square, all this madness is happening.” 

So far the person who left the package has not been identified or taken into custody. 

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Renee Anderson

Renee Anderson is a digital producer at CBS New York, where she covers breaking news and other local stories. Before joining the team in 2016, Renee worked at WMUR-TV.