PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact Information: PolicePRUnit@slcgov.com

Media Request Form: https://police.slc.gov/mediarequest/

SLCPD Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) Investigates Suspicious Circumstance in Downtown

SALT LAKE CITY — Tonight, the Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) responded to a downtown hotel to investigate a suspicious circumstance.

This investigation began at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, August 16, 2024, when SLC911 received information about an unattended suitcase left outside the Salt Lake Plaza Hotel, located at 122 West South Temple Street.

During their investigation, SLCPD officers spoke with a witness who said a man carried a suitcase onto the hotel property and then placed it on the exterior of the building near an electrical box. The person who left behind the luggage manipulated the suitcase and then ran away from the scene, according to the witness.

Due to the suspicious nature, the SLCPD’s HDU responded. Detectives conducted a public safety assessment, which resulted in the evacuation of the northside of the 13-floor hotel.

SLCPD officers went floor-by-floor evacuating the impacted rooms. Officers told other hotel guests to shelter in place.

Officers also closed West Temple Street in between North and South Temple Street.

After reviewing an image of the luggage’s content, HDU detectives determined the suitcase did not pose any danger.

Upon their determination, SLCPD officers lifted the evacuation order.

The Salt Lake City Police Department appreciates the cooperation of all those impacted by this investigation.

The Salt Lake City Police Department encourages anyone who see suspicious behavior or circumstances to call 9-1-1 immediately.

The Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) is a vital part of the Special Operations Division, specializing in detecting, investigating, rendering safe, and removing hazardous materials and explosive devices. HDU members undergo rigorous training to achieve specialized certifications, equipping them with the expertise needed to protect the community. Utilizing advanced technology, the unit continuously updates its protocols to address evolving threats. HDU collaborates closely with other public safety groups and participates in the Utah Bomb Squad Task Force and the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, ensuring seamless coordination and maximum efficiency in responding to potential threats. Through this commitment, HDU remains at the forefront of hazardous device disposal and public safety.

Two photos from the scene are being released. Media may use these photos with credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department.

Photo: A Salt Lake City Police car blocks West Temple Street and South Temple Street while detectives investigate a suspicious circumstance at a hotel in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah (SLCPD photo – August 16, 2024).

Photo: Members of the Salt Lake City Police Department’s Hazardous Devices Unit (HDU) speak with a patrol sergeant assigned to the SLCPD’s Central Patrol Division after an evacuation order is lifted following an investigation into a suspicious circumstance (SLCPD photo – August 16, 2024).

###