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GW Bridge Scare: Claim Of 'Sniper' With Rifle On Lower Level Deemed A Prank

George Washington Bridge traffic was temporarily stopped Wednesday after police received a call from a purported sniper who claimed to be on the lower level.

GWB

GWB

Photo Credit: Jerry DeMarco

The 6:07 p.m. call turned out to be a "swatting" prank by someone from outside the country who claimed to have a rifle, Capt. Edward Young said.

A Fort Lee dispatcher took the call, which came from a blocked number, Young said. Borough police then notified their colleagues at the Port Authority.

A command center was established at the Port Authority building near the bridge, the captain said.

"The caller eventually revealed that his location was outside the United States and congratulated the emergency services for their response during this incident," Young said.

 All lanes were reopened shortly before 7 p.m.

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