Update:

Authorities have indicated that the courthouse has been cleared. Downtown DeRidder has also been reopened.

Original:

DeRidder, Louisiana - DeRidder police evacuated downtown businesses and residents Thursday, September 18, after receiving a bomb threat targeting the local courthouse, according to the DeRidder City Police Department and Beauregard Parish Sheriff's Office.

Law enforcement officials immediately cleared all buildings in the immediate area surrounding the courthouse and established a perimeter to ensure public safety. The evacuation affects multiple businesses and residential areas in downtown DeRidder.

"All business and residents around this are being evacuated at this time and we are asking everyone to avoid this area until further notice," the DeRidder City Police Department stated in their public alert.

The Beauregard Parish Sheriff's Office confirmed that all businesses and residents in the immediate vicinity have been successfully evacuated from the potentially dangerous zone.

DeRidder police are currently coordinating with Fort Polk military installation to bring in specialized explosive detection dogs to thoroughly search the courthouse building. These trained canines are equipped to detect various types of explosive materials and devices that might pose a threat to public safety.

The courthouse serves as a central location for legal proceedings and government services in DeRidder, making it a significant target that requires immediate and thorough investigation. Bomb threats against government buildings are treated as serious federal matters requiring extensive security protocols.

Law enforcement has not released details about when the threat was received or the specific nature of the threatening communication. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the credibility of the threat.

Residents and business owners are advised to stay away from the downtown area near the courthouse until officials declare the area safe. The evacuation zone encompasses the immediate blocks surrounding the courthouse building.

DeRidder, located in Beauregard Parish, serves as the parish seat and houses important government offices within the courthouse complex. The building typically sees steady foot traffic from residents conducting official business.