A bomb threat sent via text message activated a multi-agency response to a north Phoenix Apartment complex.
Phoenix police report that on May 23 a man, later identified as 37-year-old Brandon Robert Lilly, sent a text to an acquaintance saying that he placed an explosive device at his apartment near 51st Avenue and Bell Road.
The victim reported to police that he took the threat seriously because of threats Lilly also allegedly made to the victim's brother.
Police say Lilly texted, "Wanted to know when I should pull the trigger on the explosive device I placed in your house. I can't blow the place up without someone in it.”
Twenty units including police, fire, and the bomb squad responded to the apartment complex and spent nearly three hours there, before clearing the scene.
Nearby apartments were also evacuated. No device was located.
Lilly later told police it was a joke. He has been charged with false reporting.
