Arnold Schwarzenegger's Los Angeles home became the center of a police operation on Thanksgiving Day after an anonymous bomb threat turned out to be a dangerous hoax. The incident, which police are treating as a case of "swatting," highlighted the potential dangers of false emergency calls targeting high-profile figures.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) rushed to the actor and former California governor's estate following a claim that a bomb had been placed in his mailbox. After a thorough inspection of the mailbox and surrounding areas, no explosive device was found. According to TMZ, officers on the scene spoke with Schwarzenegger's security team, who emphasized that it would be "virtually impossible" to plant a bomb on the property due to extensive camera surveillance and round-the-clock security measures.
At the time of the threat, Schwarzenegger, 77, was not at home but was reportedly working out at a nearby gym. He later returned home, riding his bike back to his estate. Despite the alarming nature of the incident, sources close to Schwarzenegger expressed gratitude for the LAPD's prompt response, even on a holiday.
Swatting, a dangerous prank that involves falsely reporting a serious crime to prompt an aggressive police response, has become a growing concern, particularly for public figures. The LAPD confirmed that they are investigating the incident as such.
The ordeal came just days after Schwarzenegger was seen giving back to the Los Angeles community. On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, the actor joined volunteers at the Hollenbeck Youth Center, where he handed out turkeys and meals to families in need. Speaking with Fox 11 at the event, Schwarzenegger reflected on the importance of service: "Giving back to me is everything. It's something that will stay with you forever."
The tradition, which Schwarzenegger began more than four decades ago, has become an annual act of generosity. "I love America, and America greeted me, as an immigrant, with open arms," he said, emphasizing the spirit of sharing that defines the season.
Schwarzenegger's history of public service extends beyond charity work. The former governor of California has been vocal about political and social issues, most recently endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris during the presidential race. In a lengthy post on X (formerly Twitter), Schwarzenegger explained his endorsement, stating, "I will always be an American before I am a Republican." He added, "I want to move forward as a country, and even though I have plenty of disagreements with their platform, I think the only way to do that is with Harris and Walz."
Despite his endorsement, Donald Trump ultimately won the election with 312 electoral college votes, leaving Schwarzenegger's statement as a reflection of his belief in unity over division. "We need to close the door on this chapter of American history," he wrote. "We, the people, will get nothing but more anger [from Trump]."
