Bomb threats targeting Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, led to a city-wide response on February 9, 2026. Governor Mike DeWine announced that multiple Clark County offices received threats urging the removal of Haitians, prompting the Springfield City School District to close schools and the police to secure downtown areas. The threats, received around 7:45 a.m., included calls to 'get rid of the Haitians.'
The authorities discovered 'suspicious packages' near the municipal court and public safety building, leading to road closures and early school dismissals. Governor DeWine emphasized the despicable nature of the act, causing students to miss a day of education. By 1 p.m., the downtown area was reopened, and the city assured the public that there was no immediate threat.
The FBI's Cincinnati office confirmed an investigation into 'hoax threats' in Springfield and Columbus, emphasizing the seriousness of such acts as federal crimes. The Springfield City School District informed parents of the closures via email, urging them to pick up their children promptly. The district did not disclose specific safety concerns but cited an 'abundance of caution'.
The incident occurred amidst concerns of a potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) crackdown on Haitian immigrants, as the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) was set to expire on February 3. A federal judge had previously blocked the removal of TPS for Haitians, allowing them to remain in the country. The Trump administration and the Department of Homeland Security have appealed the decision to the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia.
Springfield has a significant Haitian immigrant population, with approximately 15,000 residents and an estimated 30,000 in central Ohio. Around 350,000 Haitian immigrants are believed to be in the U.S. on TPS. This is not the first time Springfield has faced such threats; the city experienced bomb threats during the 2024 presidential election campaign, when false claims about Haitian immigrants were amplified, sparking national debate.
