Police Respond to Rumors Ahead of Heritage Days

September 20, 2025

McCOOK Neb. — As text messages and social media posts about possible concerns spread through McCook on Friday night, McCook News Now reached out to local law enforcement to confirm the facts.

McCook Police Chief Kevin Hodgson responded directly to an inquiry from McCook News Now on Saturday morning, confirming that officers had investigated the rumors and found no credible threat.

“The rumors were investigated and we could not confirm they were credible,” Hodgson said.

He added that all available McCook officers will be on duty for the parade and celebration in the park, and that MPD coordinated the investigation with both the Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol. Officers from all three agencies will be patrolling and maintaining a heightened presence during both the parade and festivities at Norris Park.

“If the public has any information that would lead the police to an individual or individuals that may have credible information, we would request that those individuals contact the police,” Hodgson said.

The chief also emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency, acknowledging the public concern caused by circulating rumors while reiterating that the investigation did not uncover a credible threat.

Heritage Days festivities are continuing as planned, with the parade scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, followed by activities in Norris Park and Oktoberfest in Norris Alley Saturday evening.

Why We’re Not Publishing the Rumor Itself

McCook News Now has received many questions about what the rumor was. After consulting with law enforcement, we’ve chosen not to publish the specific claim for these reasons:

• Law enforcement found no credibility. Repeating an unverified rumor could give it more weight than it deserves.

• It risks creating unnecessary fear. Even when labeled “not credible,” people may remember the false detail more than the reassurance.

• Our role is to share facts, not amplify speculation. By publishing the police department’s statement in full, we can provide clarity without fueling rumors.

If you have information that may be relevant to law enforcement, the McCook Police Department asks that you contact them directly.