Disneyland Evacuated After Suspicious Bags with Wires and Marbles Found Near Entrance
Disneyland evacuated visitors Monday night after security found two suspicious bags near the main entrance, one containing marbles and wires. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department bomb squad cleared the items by midnight, confirming they were harmless but likely placed intentionally to mimic a threat.
Key points
- Disneyland security notified the Anaheim Police Department at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Monday regarding two bags left near a roundabout at the park's main entrance.
- One bag contained marbles with wires protruding from it, while the other had duct tape on top and sharp instruments sticking out, according to Sgt. Eric Anderson.
- One of the suspicious items was placed on a dolly, prompting officers to evacuate park visitors and direct them toward alternative exits.
- The Orange County Sheriff’s Department bomb squad was called in to inspect the items and determined shortly before midnight that neither bag contained explosives.
- Police believe the bags were left intentionally to appear suspicious and are currently investigating the individuals responsible for the hoax.
Background
This incident follows a pattern of security disruptions at major entertainment venues in the region. In May 2026, Six Flags Magic Mountain in California opened after a bomb threat investigation, and in June, a homeowner in Valley Glen discovered live dynamite in a freezer, leading to evacuations. Additionally, a fatal incident involving a roller coaster at Six Flags Over Georgia in October 2026 prompted a full park evacuation and ride closures, highlighting ongoing safety concerns at amusement parks.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the vulnerability of high-traffic public spaces to false alarms or intentional hoaxes, which can cause significant operational disruptions and public anxiety. The specific details of the bags, such as the use of marbles and wires, suggest a deliberate attempt to mimic a bomb, raising questions about the motives behind such actions and the need for robust security protocols in crowded venues.
What to watch
Authorities are investigating the individuals responsible for leaving the suspicious bags. Disneyland is expected to resume normal operations after the bomb squad cleared the area, though the incident may lead to increased security measures or public advisories regarding suspicious items in the coming days.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on Los Angeles Times