Full Breakdown
Bomb Threat Investigated at Home of Pope Leo XIV's Brother
4/16/2026, 7:59:38 PM
Incident Overview
On Wednesday evening, police in New Lenox, Illinois, responded to a bomb threat at the residence of John Prevost, the brother of Pope Leo XIV. The New Lenox Police Department received the report around 6:30 p.m. and promptly established a secure perimeter around the home. Nearby residents were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Following a thorough search involving bomb-sniffing K-9 units, authorities determined that the threat was unsubstantiated, with no explosives or hazardous materials found. Residents were allowed to return home after the scene was cleared.
Ongoing Investigation
The New Lenox Police Department has stated that the incident remains under investigation to determine the origin of the bomb threat. They emphasized that making false reports of this nature is a serious offense that could lead to criminal charges. The police have encouraged anyone with information related to the incident to contact them directly.
Context of the Threat
The bomb threat occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Pope Leo XIV and President Donald Trump. Earlier in the week, during a prayer vigil, Pope Leo criticized the growing aggression related to the U.S. conflict in Iran and called for peace. In response, Trump took to Truth Social, praising Louis Prevost for his support and criticizing the pope's stance, stating, “Louis is all MAGA. He gets it, and Leo doesn’t!” This public exchange has led to speculation regarding a possible connection between the threat and the ongoing disputes.
Official Statements
The New Lenox Police Department expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation during the investigation. They reiterated the seriousness of false bomb threats and the potential legal consequences. In a statement, they noted, “The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to determine the origin of the report.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation is ongoing, there has been no direct attribution of the bomb threat to any individual or group. However, the incident has sparked discussions about the implications of public figures' rhetoric and the potential for such statements to incite threats or violence. Critics of both Trump and the pope have pointed out that inflammatory comments can lead to dangerous situations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Making false reports of this nature is a serious offense and may result in criminal charges.” — New Lenox Police Department
- “ Speaking to other reporters, he added: "I’m not afraid of the Trump administration or of speaking out loudly about the message of the Gospel, which is what the Church works for.” — Pope Leo XIV
The investigation into the bomb threat at John Prevost's home continues, with authorities working to uncover the motives behind the alarming incident.
