Keene, Texas — A man is behind bars after police say he called in bomb threats to two churches in Keene, prompting emergency responses and searches at both locations over the weekend.
According to the Keene Police Department, the suspect made threatening calls Saturday afternoon, leading to a swift investigation and his arrest on terroristic threat charges.
Bomb Threats Reported Saturday Afternoon
Police said the incident unfolded around 3:30 p.m. Saturday, when bomb threats were reported at two separate religious sites in the city.
The threats were allegedly made via voicemail and targeted:
- The Keene Seventh-Day Adventist Church
- Iglesia Adventista Del Septimo Dia
Law enforcement officers responded to both locations and immediately began safety procedures.
“Both locations were searched and cleared,” police confirmed.
No explosives or suspicious devices were found during the searches.
Investigation Leads to Suspect
As officers worked to trace the origin of the threats, investigators were able to link the voicemail calls to a single suspect, authorities said.
Police identified the suspect as Joshua Pike, 29.
Following that discovery, detectives obtained arrest warrants in connection with the threats.
Arrest and Charges Filed
Pike was taken into custody and booked into the Johnson County Jail, where he remains held as the investigation continues.
Police confirmed he is currently facing terroristic threat charges, with the possibility of additional charges pending.
Officials have not released details about a possible motive for the threats or whether Pike had any prior connection to the churches.
Churches Cleared, No Injuries Reported
Authorities emphasized that no injuries were reported and that the threats did not result in physical harm or damage.
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Still, police say incidents like this are taken seriously due to the potential risk to public safety and the disruption they cause to communities.
“Threats of this nature require immediate response and full investigation,” officials said.
Ongoing Review by Authorities
The Keene Police Department said the case remains under review as investigators determine whether further charges are warranted.
Officials also reminded the public that making bomb threats is a felony offense, even if no explosive device is found.
Community Safety Concerns
The incident has raised concerns among residents about safety at places of worship, particularly during weekend services when attendance is high.
Law enforcement officials say they continue to work closely with local institutions to ensure safety and encourage anyone with information related to threats or suspicious activity to report it immediately.
As the legal process moves forward, police stress that allegations remain accusations until proven in court.
Do you think penalties for bomb threats are strong enough to deter these incidents, or should laws be tougher? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
