The Seminole Police Department in collaboration with the FBI is investigating two incidents at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa in Florida.
Crude Device Prompts Evacuation
The first incident dated to late last week, when law enforcement was contacted after a suspicious device was seen in one of the men’s restrooms next to the casino floor. The report was made before midnight on Sunday and saw part of the casino resort undergo evacuation. Searching the area, officers found what was described as a “crude device” that consisted of fireworks and other materials.
The device was removed with the help of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Bomb Disposal Team and subsequently deactivated, as announced by FOX 13. Thanks to the swift actions of law enforcement, the casino reopened at approximately 3 AM on Monday.
Investigation Into the Incidents Continues
Regretfully, later on the same day, another evacuation at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa took place. This was required as police uncovered a second device. According to a report by law enforcement, the second concealed device was found upon searching the premises following the first incident.
Similarly to the first suspicious device, the second “concealed device” was found in a men’s restroom that was close to the casino floor. Subsequently, the casino floor and other adjacent parts of the venue were temporarily evacuated while the second device was obtained and deactivated by law enforcement.
As of Monday evening, the entire casino floor and other areas continued their operation without any restrictions.
An investigation into the two incidents is currently ongoing. While the Seminole Police Department is looking into the case, it is also being assisted by the FBI. The casino’s CCTV records are being reviewed to determine who left the two devices.
Law enforcement hasn’t determined a motive for the criminal activities. So far there is no data confirming if the “concealed devices” were dangerous and if so, to what extent.
Gamblers Take Home Hefty Prizes from the Tampa Casino
Ahead of the evacuation, on Saturday, a lucky winner scored a big win at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa. The fortunate player played Dragon Link and hit a mind-blowing $132,488.98 jackpot with a $5 bet.
Before that, earlier in September, another fortunate winner struck gold while playing at Seminole Hard Rock Tampa. At the time, a player who enjoyed the popular Lightning Link slot hit a six-figure jackpot. The winner placed a $25 bet to secure a sweet $113,576.16 payday.