Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building evacuated after bomb threat

No bombs found inside building; evacuation shuffles court schedules

MIAMI – The Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building in downtown Miami was evacuated Thursday morning because of a bomb threat.

Miami-Dade police said someone called 911 shortly before 8:30 a.m. to report that a man and a woman had placed two pipe bombs inside the courthouse, prompting the evacuation.

Miami-Dade County court spokeswoman Eunice Sigler said the courthouse was temporarily closed while police investigated the threat.

A police officer drove around the building with a megaphone shortly before 10:30 a.m., telling people that court had been canceled.

The incident disrupted the calendar for the day, causing many court dates to be rescheduled.

Sigler said bond hearings were rescheduled for the afternoon.

"I think it's absolutely ridiculous, and if they find out who did it, they should be prosecuted," Terri Purcell, who works in the building, told Local 10 News.

The bomb squad was called and searched the building, but police said no bombs were found. 


About the Authors

Peter Burke returned for a second stint of duty at Local 10 News in February 2014.

Liane Morejon is an Emmy-winning reporter who joined the Local 10 News family in January 2010. Born and raised in Coral Gables, Liane has a unique perspective on covering news in her own backyard.

Recommended Videos