Tacoma’s Grand Cinema closes on Father’s Day after bomb, shooting threats

The Grand Cinema movie theater in Tacoma had to temporarily close for Father’s Day on Sunday after threats to bomb or shoot up the theater.

The threats came from an individual on Saturday night, which prompted the theater to fully close out of an abundance of caution, The Grand Cinema announced.

“I’m really shocked, the grand is kind of a staple in Tacoma, and to hear there is any kind of threat or act of violence towards the staff who create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for Tacoma, I’m just taken aback,” Tacoma resident Vi Whitmarsh told FOX 13.

Tacoma Police inspected the theater twice before clearing it to reopen

The Tacoma Police Department (TPD) was tapped to thoroughly inspect the space twice in order to ensure that the theater was safe to reopen. The theater noted that it is increasing security measures as a precautionary measure to provide safety for staff, volunteers, audience members, and other tenants within the building.

“At this time, we cannot share further details due to ongoing police investigations,” Elizabeth Calhoun, executive director of The Grand Cinema, stated in a release. “The Grand Cinema team will communicate additional details when we are able. Please refrain from speculating, as spreading misinformation can be harmful to the investigations. We are very disappointed that this happened, but our team is grateful for everyone’s patience, understanding, and support as we’ve been working through this.”

Throughout this week, The Grand Cinema will restrict any bags from entering the theater, as the policy was recommended by TPD.

As for the Father’s Day programming cancellations, the theater will issue refunds to any audience members impacted by the closure.

TPD will be doing patrols throughout the area on Monday to monitor conditions, according to FOX 13.

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