Call at Mosquito Bridge deemed hoax

BELMONT — A major public safety response was summoned Sunday night at Mosquito Bridge, during a swatting incident, when a caller claimed to have taken two hostages, and have an accomplice who placed pipe bombs in nearby boats.

The caller, who identified themselves as “The Reaper,” called the Belmont Police Department at 8:54 p.m. on July 5, claiming two hostages were tied up aboard a boat, one already deceased. Additionally, the called demanded $30,000.

The description of the boats, near Winnisquam Marine, and the general knowledge of the area, initially granted some credibility to the call, and a handful of local agencies were deployed to assist.

“Out of an abundance of caution, the Belmont Police Department immediately initiated a coordinated response, treating the threat as credible until it could be thoroughly investigated,” wrote Belmont Police Capt. Evan Boulanger, in a press release.

An immediate search began.

“Drone technology and explosive detection K-9 teams were requested as officers systematically searched the area to locate any victims or explosive devices and to determine the validity of the threats,” Boulanger wrote.

After three hours of “an extensive” investigation, the call was deemed not credible, proving to be a major waste of public safety resources. Swatting incidents intend to accomplish just that.

“Incidents of this nature result in the unnecessary deployment of significant public safety resources, diverting law enforcement officers, specialized tactical personnel, K9 teams, drones, and emergency responders away from legitimate emergencies where their services may be critically needed,” Boulanger wrote. “These hoax calls place first responders at unnecessary risk, create fear within the community, and consume substantial taxpayer-funded resources.”

Also responding to the scene, which was cleared by 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, were the Gilford, Gilmanton, Sanbornton and Tilton police departments, the Belknap County Sheriff’s Office, and members of the Belknap Regional Special Operations Team.

This isn’t The Reaper’s first phone call, according to the New Hampshire Information and Analysis Center, also known as the State Fusion Center.

“The State Fusion Center advised investigators that several similar threats had recently been reported in other jurisdictions from an individual using the name 'The Reaper,'" according to the release. 

This investigation remains active. Anyone with information to assist investigators should call Belmont Police at 603-267-8350.

“The Belmont Police Department would like to thank the residents and boaters in the Mosquito Bridge and Winnisquam Marine area for their patience, understanding, and cooperation throughout this incident. Their assistance allowed emergency personnel to conduct a thorough and safe investigation,” Boulanger wrote.

•••

Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.