Three guests at the Embassy Suites hotel in downtown Tuscaloosa were evacuated Thursday morning after hotel staff revealed a suspicious package in the lobby at 8:15 AM.
The Tuscaloosa Police Department’s bomb squad responded within minutes of the initial 911 call, establishing a 500-foot perimeter around the building. Officers uncovered an unattended trailer in the parking lot that appeared to be connected to the package inside.
“We’re treating this situation with extreme caution,” said Police Chief James Davidson. “Our primary concern is ensuring the safety of all hotel guests and staff members.”
The bomb squad deployed a remote-controlled robot to examine both the package and trailer.
Hotel security footage showed an unidentified male entering the lobby at approximately 7:45 AM, leaving the package behind a potted plant near the front desk. The suspect, described as a white male in his mid-40s wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans, drove away in a dark-colored pickup truck.
By 10:30 AM, authorities determined the package contained personal belongings and posed no threat to public safety. The trailer, which initially raised concerns due to suspicious wiring visible through its windows, was found to contain automotive parts and tools.
After thorough inspection, both the suspicious package and trailer were found to contain ordinary items, presenting no danger to the public.”
The hotel resumed normal operations at 11:15 AM, allowing guests to return to their rooms. “We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during this morning’s evacuation,” said Embassy Suites manager Sarah Thompson. “Our emergency protocols worked exactly as designed.”
The Tuscaloosa Police Department continues to look into the incident and is working to identify the individual responsible for leaving the package. They’re reviewing additional surveillance footage from nearby businesses and have asked anyone with information to contact their tip line.
This marks the second bomb scare in downtown Tuscaloosa this year, following a similar incident at the county courthouse in March. Police have found no connection between the two events but are maintaining heightened awareness in the area.
