Chandler Police clear store after false report of active shooter inside JC Penney

CHANDLER, Ariz. (FOX 10) - Chandler Police say after investigating, nothing suspicious was found inside the JC Penney near Gilbert and Germann Roads after a false report of an active shooter.

Investigators say an off-duty Maricopa County Sheriff's deputy was shopping and overheard an exchange between employees about a possible shooter. The deputy advised they contact their supervisor and follow protocol while the deputy called 911.

Officers responded to the scene and cleared the building with no shooter or victims found. The store was evacuated, but has since re-opened.

Chandler police say this appears to be a hoax, but this is a good example of taking action when we hear or see something suspicious.