Police response at Nomad inn. Listener Photot
False alarm at Fort McMurray hotel prompts high-risk police response
FORT MCMURRAY, AB. — A reported gunman and hostage situation at the Nomad Hotel in Fort McMurray turned out to be a false alarm, but not before triggering a swift and high-risk response by Wood Buffalo RCMP.
Police were called around 10:40 a.m. on Thursday after a 9-1-1 report claimed someone with a rifle was holding hostages on one of the hotel’s floors. Officers quickly moved in, contained the area, evacuated the building, and methodically cleared it room by room.
One person was briefly detained near the scene but was later released without charges. A full investigation revealed that there was no threat and no such person or situation inside the hotel.
RCMP thanked the public for staying away from the area during the incident, which they say was resolved safely thanks to coordinated training and quick response. The force reminded residents that its officers are trained in crisis response, tactical operations and de-escalation, and regularly take part in simulation exercises to stay prepared for high-stakes calls.
While the threat was not real, the danger of social media sharing during such situations is. Police are urging the public to avoid posting photos or videos of officers in action, noting that such posts can jeopardize both police operations and public safety.
RCMP continue to encourage the public to report any suspicious or criminal activity. In an emergency, call 911. Anonymous tips can be shared through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at P3Tips.com, or through the P3 Tips app.
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