Fullerton

Fullerton synagogue evacuated during Sabbath service due to bomb threat

No explosives were found following a bomb squad search at Temple Beth Tikvah.

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A Fullerton synagogue was evacuated Saturday following a false bomb threat, bringing a halt to Sabbath service. 

The service, which was streamed live and on demand on Facebook, was at Temple Beth Tikvah, at 1600 N. Acacia Ave.  The bomb threat was received around midday, police said.

Officials at the synagogue told police they received a phone call from a man who made antisemitic comments, Fullerton police Capt. Jon Radus told City News Service.

“The call, which was recorded, was reviewed by FPD personnel, and while certainly antisemitic in nature, it did not rise to the point of being criminal in nature,'' Radus said.

At 10:40 a.m., Fullerton police dispatch received a call from the Los Angeles Police Department advising they received a call from someone who said there was a bomb at Temple Beth Tikvah and that it would detonate in 20 minutes, he said.

About 30 people were evacuated as police and deputies, including a K-9, searched the property. The Orange County Sheriff's Department Bomb Squad determined there were no explosive device on the grounds. 

“Sadly, this is something that many temples, many Jewish houses of worship… have to live with,” said the Rabbi Mati Kirschenbaum. 

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Details about the threat were not immediately available. 

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