Transit Center suspicious box not a threat, police ask public to be vigilant
DETROIT - As Police readied for thousands celebrating New Year's Eve downtown, a scare at the Rosa Parks Transit Center happened at noon Thursday.
Transit Police say a metal box with a lock was discovered. The bomb squad was called in but after investigating, no dangers were found.
Officials say only medication and a small amount of money were found inside.
The entire center had gone into precautionary shut down mode with six buses rerouted as a safety measure.
Police cleared the scene at the transit center at 3 p.m. Thursday and they say that's why it is key that if you see something that's strange, to contact them immediately.
If you see someone lay a backpack down or a purse don't touch it, go alert an officer
"There's no viable threat downtown but we have units that deal with that specifically," said Detroit Police Capt. Conway Petty.
As thousands get ready to bring in the New Year in downtown Detroit police say they will be out in full force.
"As we do in any other major event, we have extra manpower downtown and all major spots," Petty said. "Concerts, The big D Drop. We want people to have a safe and prosperous new year."
Police say they are prepared to do their part to keep people safe but they need you to do your part also.
"There's no reason to take guns and shoot them in the air the bullet has to land somewhere," Petty said. "Be careful with the drinking. We're going to be strict on that."
It's that zero tolerance that many say makes them confident about celebrating downtown.
"The safety down here is pretty good," said reveler Carol Williams. "I think it's going to be good."