The Lafayette Police Department was made aware of bomb threats made to both Lafayette Target locations earlier this afternoon. Thankfully, the stores remain open and have been deemed safe for shoppers and employees.

At approximately 5:15 pm on Saturday, June 10, 2023, the LPD was informed that a threat was sent to a local news channel via email, stating that there were bombs at each of the Target locations (4313 Ambassador Caffery and 3225 Louisiana Avenue).

According to the email, the bombs were due to Target betraying the LGBTQ+ community and they were placed at the locations to cause economic damage.

The email said, "You have betrayed the LGBTQ+ community. You are pathetic cowards who bowed to the wishes of far-right extremists who want to exterminate us."

It went on to say, "We will not tolerate intolerance nor indifference. If you are not with us then you are against us. That is why we placed a bomb in each of your locations, evacuate now as this is only to cause economic damage."

The Lafayette Police Department along with the Lafayette Fire Department responded to both Target locations. The staff at each store were aware of the incident.

The Ambassador Caffery location was satisfied with the response. And after a review of their security system, it was determined that the location was safe to continue operations.

A thorough safety sweep was performed by Lafayette PD, Lafayette FD, and Target staff at the Louisiana Avenue location.

Neither location was evacuated and no explosive devices were found.

These incidents will be further investigated and updates will be provided should it be necessary.