Gloversville bomb threats forced evacuations at two businesses Saturday morning before police arrested a 41-year-old Missouri man who now faces multiple charges. The Missouri Man Arrested After Bomb Threats in Gloversville, identified as Eric Bowman, is not considered a continuing threat to the public.
The first call came at about 7:30 a.m., when Gloversville police were dispatched to Antonucci Foods on South Main Street for an anonymous bomb threat. The business was evacuated while officers searched the property with assistance from the New York State Police.
About an hour later, while officers were still dealing with the first threat, police received another report of an anonymous bomb threat at the Walmart on South Kingsboro Avenue.
Two businesses evacuated within about an hour
Police said the Walmart was also evacuated as a precaution. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the search there.
Authorities did not report finding an explosive device at either location. The threats nevertheless required a significant emergency response because police must treat such reports as potentially real until a search determines otherwise.
During the investigation, a Gloversville Police Department detective identified Bowman as the single person of interest in both threats, according to police.
Police say suspect fled before arrest
Police said Bowman had traveled to Gloversville to visit someone. After officers contacted him, he allegedly ran from the location where he was staying.
Authorities said he was taken into custody after a short foot chase.
Bowman was arraigned on two counts of making a terroristic threat, along with second-degree obstruction of governmental administration, resisting arrest and tampering with physical evidence.
The charges are allegations. Bowman is presumed innocent unless and until he is convicted in court.
Police say there is no ongoing danger
The Gloversville Police Department said there is no continuing threat to the public connected to the incidents.
Police also asked anyone with information about Bowman or the threats to contact Detective Johnathan Spychalski at 518-773-4501 or jspychalski@gpd.fulton.ny.us.
Why bomb threats trigger major responses
Even when no device is found, bomb threats can create serious public-safety problems. Businesses may need to evacuate, roads can be closed and police, fire departments and bomb technicians may be pulled from other calls.
Investigators also have to determine whether a threat was made by phone, online, in person or through another method. Digital records, phone information, surveillance footage and witness statements can all become part of the investigation.
What to do if a bomb threat is received
- Take the threat seriously and contact law enforcement immediately.
- Do not touch or move suspicious packages.
- Follow evacuation instructions from police or building managers.
- Avoid using radios or phones near a suspicious device if authorities advise against it.
- Do not return to the building until officials say it is safe.
- Write down or preserve details about the threat if it can be done safely.
Regional agencies assisted Gloversville police
The response involved several law-enforcement agencies. New York State Police assisted at Antonucci Foods, while the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office helped search the Walmart.
That kind of mutual aid is common during threats involving large commercial buildings because searches can require many officers and specialized resources.
The incident is particularly relevant across the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region because Gloversville is within the broader upstate community network where residents regularly travel for work, shopping and family. A threat at a major retailer or food business can quickly affect employees, customers and nearby traffic.
Police have not released a motive for the alleged threats. That question may become clearer as the criminal case moves forward and investigators review evidence.
Sources: NEWS10 ABC; CBS6 Albany.
