False emergency call prompts large police response as authorities warn of growing trend
Full Story
Authorities in Ocean County are investigating a suspected “swatting” incident that prompted a large police response earlier this week.
According to local reports, officers were dispatched after receiving a call indicating a serious emergency. Upon arrival, police determined that the situation may have been fabricated.
Swatting incidents—where false reports are made to trigger an armed police response—have become an increasing concern nationwide, often putting both residents and officers at risk.
Law Enforcement Concerns
Officials warn that swatting can:
- Divert critical emergency resources
- Create dangerous situations for innocent residents
- Result in criminal charges for those responsible
The Bigger Picture
The incident reflects a growing trend that law enforcement agencies across New Jersey are actively working to address.
Berkeley Township Police – Press Release
03/20/2026
Swatting incident
On March 20th 2026 at approximately 8:00 am the Berkeley Township Police Department responded to an address in the Holiday City section of the Township in reference to a report of shots fired with injured victims with the actor possibly going to Lacey Township to commit more crimes.
As a result multiple units quickly arrived on scene. Responding officers contacted the homeowner and immediately entered the home to deal with the potential threat. It was quickly determined that there were no victims and that no incident occurred at the home. Simultaneously, responding officers were able to locate an address in Forked River connected to this call at which time the Lacey Township Police responded and determined that there was no issue at that residence.
Further investigation revealed that this call was likely a “Swatting’ incident where false calls of violence are made to police to illicit a large emergency response. Once this was confirmed, follow-up investigation was initiated to locate the source and the caller.
This incident is still under investigation, anyone with information is urged to contact the Berkeley Township Police Department at 732-341-6600.