Zippo headquarters evacuated over suspicious package Wednesday

(WJET/WFXP)– A tense scene unfolded in McKean County this week after police from around the area were called for a reported suspicious package at the Zippo Manufacturing Headquarters.

City of Bradford police said they were called out to the Zippo headquarters in the middle of Bradford on around 10:30 am Wednesday, October 8, leading to the building being evacuated while a perimeter was set up out of an abundance of caution.

Bomb squads from Pennsylvania State Police and the City of Erie were called in to help with the investigation.

Ultimately, police said the package’s content was safe, and the building was turned back over to Zippo officials around 1:30 that afternoon. In a social media post, Bradford police highlighted the work between all the agencies involved.

This incident highlights the importance of strong collaboration between agencies. The City of Bradford Police Department extends its gratitude to the Bradford City Fire Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Erie City Bomb Squad, McKean County Dispatch, Emergency Management, Zippo, and all first responders involved in today’s operation. The safety of our community remains our top priority.