Police Prepared, But "Day Of Rage" Protests Never Materialize
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Pittsburgh Police had prepared for a rumored protest as part of something called the "Day of Rage." But it was apparently a hoax.
Pittsburgh was one of 37 cities where demonstrations were supposedly possible.
Someone claiming to be from the activist group "Anonymous" posted messages online about having protests to support the "Black Lives Matter" movement.
Police were ready outside the City-County Building, where it was rumored that a protest would take place.
They had metal fencing on standby. The city had even been in contact with the FBI.
But no protestors showed up.
"We saw no evidence of any credible threat, but better safe than sorry," said Cmdr. Ed Trapp.
"Our understanding is that 'Black Lives Matter' did not want to be associated with 'Anonymous,'" said Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich. "So somebody did a very elaborate scam."
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter
Police say the cost of the scam was minimal to the city because officers who were already on duty were called to check out the situation.
It appears nothing materialized in most if not all cities on the list; although, there was some kind of protest reported in Oakland, California, Friday night.
There was a similar hoax in 2014.