Canton, Ohio — Mercy Hospital Cleveland Clinic in Canton was placed on full lockdown Tuesday evening after authorities received a bomb threat, prompting an immediate security response and the diversion of incoming emergency patients.
Hospital officials confirmed that all entrances have been secured, and no one is being allowed to enter or leave the facility while law enforcement investigates. The hospital’s Emergency Department has temporarily stopped accepting new patients, with ambulances and walk-ins being redirected to nearby hospitals.
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Witnesses reported a heavy police presence around the hospital, including Canton Police, Stark County Sheriff’s deputies, and Cleveland Clinic security personnel. Bomb-sniffing dogs and specialized response units are actively conducting sweeps of the hospital grounds and surrounding parking areas.
Patients arriving for emergency care were turned away, causing confusion and concern among those seeking treatment. “They told us to go back or find another hospital,” one patient said.
A spokesperson for Cleveland Clinic emphasized, “Our top priority is the safety of our patients, visitors, and caregivers. We are cooperating fully with local law enforcement as they investigate a potential threat. Mercy Hospital remains on lockdown out of an abundance of caution.”
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area while the investigation continues. Roads leading to the hospital have been blocked, and access to the campus is restricted.
At this time, no injuries or explosions have been reported, and officials have not yet confirmed whether the threat is credible. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.