Bomb threats in American town after Trump's statements: 'Lots of fear in Springfield'

springfield, ohio, usa - Police report multiple bomb threats in Springfield, Ohio following false rumors about Haitian migrants eating pets, with authorities suspecting right-wing figures exacerbating the situation.

On Saturday, bomb threats were made targeting three medical facilities and an unknown fourth location. The establishments were cleared by the police, including Springfield Regional Medical Center, Ohio Valley Surgical Hospital, and Kettering Health Springfield.

The town has been tense due to unfounded online rumors about Haitian migrants eating pets, further amplified by right-wing figures such as ex-President Trump and Senator JD Vance, according to Mayor Rob Rue.

Earlier on Friday, two preschools and an elementary school closed due to email bomb threats, with students being handed over to parents. Threats were also directed at various institutions and media outlets on Thursday, including the evacuation of the town hall. It's unclear if all threats are related, Rue mentioned.

Local police chief Allison Elliott mentioned the close collaboration with the FBI. Trump's recent comments during a TV debate alluding to migrants eating pets were not substantiated by local authorities in Springfield.

The White House condemned false narratives endangering lives, with an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 migrants living in Springfield. Rue emphasized the damaging impact of such statements on communities like Springfield.