Federal Heights — Officials cleared patrons from Water World just after noon Saturday, July 11, as law enforcement investigated a reported threat that prompted the north metro Denver attraction to close for the day.
What happened
Federal Heights police posted on social media that everyone inside the park was being asked to leave immediately. Commanding Officer Jason Schlenker of the Federal Heights Police Department told reporters the department was probing an unverified bomb threat at the water park complex near 88th Avenue and Pecos Street.
"Out of an abundance of caution, everyone inside the park is being asked to evacuate the immediate area," the police department said in its social post.
Water World acknowledged the evacuation on its own social channels, saying staff had asked guests to exit the property following an emergency report. The park will remain closed while police and other agencies conduct a search of the grounds.
Where families were directed
Authorities set up a reunification location for parents and guardians at Camenisch Park, 2518 W. 90th Ave. Officials urged people to avoid the immediate area to allow first responders room to work and to reduce traffic congestion.
- Incident: Reported potential/bomb threat
- Location: Water World, 88th Ave & Pecos St., Federal Heights
- Reunification point: Camenisch Park, 2518 W. 90th Ave.
- Date and time: Saturday, July 11; patrons asked to leave shortly after noon
Context and local impact
Water World, which opened at its present site in 1979, draws thousands of visitors on summer weekends. The park had been preparing to open a new area called Sunshine Canyon later this week. An evacuation of this size can strain local traffic and emergency resources, and families told police they were frustrated by the sudden disruption but grateful for the orderly response.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Evacuation ordered | Shortly after noon, July 11 |
| Reunification point | Camenisch Park, 2518 W. 90th Ave. |
| Park status | Closed for the day pending search |
At this time police have not released information about any suspects, evidence located on scene or the specific nature of the threat. The investigation remains active and details could change as authorities complete their search and interviews.
As the situation develops, people seeking updates should monitor official Federal Heights Police Department communications and Water World’s social media pages for verified information, reunification procedures and guidance on where to pick up separated family members.
This is Ethan Maxwell, reporting from the north metro area.
