Officers from multiple agencies raced to a home late Monday night after a chilling 911 call reported what sounded like a double homicide followed by a threat of arson—with the caller warning he would shoot any law enforcement who showed up.
According to dispatch, the man told Portsmouth Police Department he had shot his wife, planned to burn the house down, and would fire at responding officers. Moments later, he added that he had also shot his son. Dispatchers reported hearing gunshots on the line, escalating the response instantly.
Within minutes, officers from the Portsmouth Police Department, the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Patrol were en route, preparing for what they believed was an active, lethal scene.
High-Risk Response
The first officer to arrive staged at a nearby church, waiting for backup before approaching. In situations like this—where a suspect claims multiple shootings and threatens police—ambulances are held back until officers can secure the scene.
Units set a perimeter and advanced cautiously, treating the call as a worst-case scenario.
Then the Truth Emerged
Once officers made entry, the picture changed dramatically.
The man’s wife was found alive and unharmed, though understandably shaken. There was no fire, no victims, and no evidence of the shootings described.
In short: the call was a false alarm—but one that mobilized a massive, dangerous response.
Here what unfolded. From the SCDN Scanner.
What Happens Now
Officers detained the caller at the scene, but no arrest was made that night. As of now, there are no charges listed in Portsmouth Municipal Court.
Because the incident occurred on a holiday, authorities say it’s still possible the case could be presented to a grand jury. False reports that trigger armed responses—especially those involving threats to officers—can carry serious legal consequences.
❓ The Final Question
No one was hurt—but dozens of officers were put in danger, emergency resources were tied up, and the community was put on edge.
👉 What should the penalty be for a false 911 call that claims a double homicide, threatens police, and sparks a full tactical response?
That’s a question prosecutors may soon have to answer.
