Opelika police investigate ‘false report of a shooting’ at fast food chain in shopping center

OPELIKA, Ala. ( WRBL ) — Opelika police say they are investigating a false report of a shooting at a fast food chain in Tiger Town.

At 12:38 p.m. on Friday, Opelika Dispatched received a 911 call reporting shots fired at the Tiger Town McDonalds. According to police, the caller said someone may have been shot and people were fleeing the building.

Officers arrived on the scene and determined no one was shot, nor had weapons been discharged.

Police say restaurant employees reported there was an argument between two people with no weapons involved.

“This incident highlights the critical importance of providing accurate and up-to-date information to dispatchers,” Opelika police wrote in a social media post. “A false report of a shooting can divert significant resources away from other emergencies and potentially put citizens and officers at risk due to the level of response.”

Police went on to remind the public false reporting or misleading authorities can lead to criminal charges.

The investigation surrounding the call is ongoing.

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