CHANDLER, AZ — Officers are investigating after a false report of an active shooter was made at the JCPenney store near Gilbert and Germann roads.
Chandler police officials said officers have cleared the building and have not located a shooter or any victims.
Police said an off-duty Maricopa County Sheriff's deputy was Christmas shopping in the store and reportedly overheard an exchange between store employees about a possible shooter in the store. The deputy advised an employee to contact a supervisor and follow protocol while the deputy called 911.
According to police, this incident appears to be a hoax and their criminal investigations bureau will be following up on the investigation.
Chandler police said this incident serves as a good example of taking action when you hear or see something suspicious.
This comes a day after a student at Apache Junction High Schoolmade a prank call of a reported threat. After a sweep of the school, officers determined there was no emergency.
