Friday in Peoria: Cat on Lockdown

According to multiple news sources, Caterpillar Inc. put all of the company’s Peoria-area buildings on lockdown Friday afternoon upon learning of a credible workplace threat of violence. Reportedly, Peoria police were involved and looking for an individual who made the threat.  As of 3:25 p.m., the lockdown has been lifted, according to Caterpillar.

“We continue to engage with law enforcement, and based on new information, Caterpillar is lifting the lockdown that was placed on all Peoria-area Caterpillar facilities. We are resuming to normal operations at this time. We will continue to monitor the situation,” a Caterpillar spokesperson said.

Peoria Journal-Star reporter Andy Kravetz, citing sources, tweeted that a “disgruntled former employee” made the threat.

Caterpillar issued a statement earlier Friday afternoon about the lockdown:  “Today we were made aware of a credible workplace violence threat to a downtown Peoria Caterpillar building. At this time we’re unsure of the threat will impact any other Peoria-area buildings. Out of an abundance of caution, we have place employees in the Peoria area on lockdown. Law enforcement officers have also been placed at Peoria-area Caterpillar facilities. We are working closely with law enforcement and will provide updates as soon as possible.”

Peoria Public Radio reported that police are investigating a person who made threatening statements directed at the company.

More at:

http://patch.com/illinois/chicago/peoria-caterpillar-plant-lockdown-workplace-threat-0