The Westside Jewish Community Center (WJCC) was evacuated on March 9 around noon for the second time in two weeks after an unknown suspect emailed a bomb threat targeting the facility at 5870 W. Olympic Blvd. The threat was determined to be a hoax.

“There was an email threat of explosives,” said Capt. Anthony Oddo, commanding officer of the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Division. “The location was evacuated. [Officers] walked through the building and everything was fine. Nothing was found.”

The incident followed another bomb threat directed at the WJCC on Feb. 27. Police also determined that threat was unsubstantiated. The two incidents occurred during a period when threats have been made to more than 120 Jewish schools, community centers and other facilities nationwide. Vandals also targeted Jewish cemeteries in Philadelphia and St. Louis. The incidents at the WJCC are being investigated by the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division.

“Obviously, it’s concerning it is happening,” Oddo said. “It was the second one at the Westside Jewish Community Center.”

Members of the public were cautioned to remain aware of potential threats and to report incidents immediately to authorities. Authorities planned to hold a meeting on the threats on Wednesday evening at the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. The meeting started after press time on Wednesday. For updated coverage, visit beverlypress.com.