Examine individual changes

'{{Refimprove|date=October 2016}} '''The '''2013 clown seeings,''' referred to in various regions by names such as "panic", "uprising", "craze", "invasion" and the like, are a series of [[evil clown]] sightings reported in the United States and to a lesser extent other [[Western world|Western]] countries since August 2016.<ref>{{cite web|title=Creepy clown sightings reported in more communities in South Carolina|url=http://fox8.com/2016/09/02/creepy-clown-sightings-reported-in-more-communities-in-south-carolina/|website=Fox8.com|access-date=September 3, 2016}}</ref><ref name="nytimes article">{{cite news|last1=Rogers|first1=Katie|title=Creepy Clown Sightings in South Carolina Cause a Frenzy|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/31/us/creepy-clown-sightings-in-south-carolina-cause-a-frenzy.html?_r=0|website=[[The New York Times]]|publisher=NYTimes.com|accessdate=September 3, 2016|date=August 30, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=McGurty|first1=Frank|last2=Prentice|first2=Chris|title=Clown sightings spook South Carolina, perplex police|url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/clown-sightings-spook-south-carolina-perplex-police-202822588.html|website=[[Yahoo!]]|publisher=Reuters|accessdate=September 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Harris|first1=Chris|title=South Carolina Police Chief to Creepy Clowns: 'The Clowning Around Needs to Stop'|url=http://www.people.com/article/south-carolina-police-chief-says-clowning-around-needs-to-stop|website=[[People (magazine)|People]]|publisher=People.com|accessdate=September 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/killer-clowns-inside-the-terrifying-hoax-sweeping-america-w442649|title='Killer Clowns': Inside the Terrifying Hoax Sweeping America|date=2016-09-30|author=Zuppello, Suzanne|publisher=''[[Rolling Stone]]''}}</ref> The clown sightings were first reported in [[South Carolina]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2016/oct/05/clown-sightings-south-carolina-alabama|title=Clown sightings: the day it all began|date=2016-10-05|author=Teague, Matthew|publisher=''[[The Guardian]]''}}</ref> By early October they had been reported in over half of US states, eight out of ten [[Provinces and territories of Canada|Canadian provinces]], and six other countries.'''''Italic text'' While some sightings lacked evidence of criminal activity, others led to arrests. In [[Pennsylvania]], a clown allegedly stabbed a high school student to death.<ref name="pennlive.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.pennlive.com/news/2016/09/clown_mask_fight_fatal_stabbin.html|title=Police look for person in clown mask after fatal stabbing|author=Hope Stephan|date=September 26, 2016 also been scene in Stockport uk |work=PennLive.com|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref> ==Scope and timeline== {{unreferenced section|date=October 2016}} The phenomenon began in [[Greenville, South Carolina]] in the United States in early August, followed by incidents in Canada shortly afterward. It continued to spread around the US to the present.<ref name="morrisjd"/> In early October, further incidents were reported in Canada and the first occurrences in [[England|UK]] and [[Australia]]. Throughout this time, Internet social media sites received numerous postings related to this phenomenon. In reaction, a California school district has banned clown costumes during [[Halloween]].<ref>[http://abc13.com/news/california-school-district-bans-clown-costumes-following-clown-scare/1543509/ California school district bans clown costumes following clown scare] Retrieved October 2016</ref> ==Incidents== ===United States=== After originally occurring in [[South Carolina]], the sightings spread to more than half the country's states.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://heavy.com/news/2016/09/clown-sightings-list-which-states-cities-have-creepy-threatening-clowns-ohio-carolina-wisconsin-florida-arrests-who-where/|title=Clown Sightings List: Which States Have Reported Threatening Clowns?|first=Stephanie Dube|last=Dwilson|date=1 October 2016|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/metro/as-reports-trickle-in-of-creepy-clown-sightings-pevely-police/article_f5b45685-18df-5005-8bd8-7637506d1cbb.html|title=As reports trickle in of creepy clown sightings, Pevely police worry about vigilantes|last=Bell|first=Kim|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://longisland.news12.com/news/police-clown-sightings-reported-in-suffolk-1.12388288|title=Clown threats put Central Islip, North Babylon, Lindenhurst school districts on alert|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/09/28/what-we-know-creepy-clown-reports-across-nation/91171858/|title=Serious or just a sick joke? What we know about creepy clown reports|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref><ref name ="KCTV">{{cite web |url=http://www.kctv5.com/story/33299520/neighbors-police-say-creepy-clown-spotted-in-platte-city|title=Neighbors, police say 'creepy clown' spotted in Platte City|date=2016-10-02|author=Sloan, Nick and Davis, Natalie|publisher=[[KCTV]]}}</ref><ref name="KOAM"/><ref name="KOAM"/><ref name="KOAM">{{cite web |url=http://www.koamtv.com/story/33307569/clown-craze-causing-concerns|title=Clown craze causing concerns|author=Willis, Carly|date=2016-10-03|publisher=[[KOAM-TV]]}}</ref><ref name="KSHB">{{cite web|url=http://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/kck-police-investigating-reported-clown-sighting|title=KCKPD investigating reported clown sighting|date=2016-09-27|author=Rothfield, Ariel|publisher=[[KSHB]]}}</ref><ref name="KSNT">{{cite web|url=http://ksnt.com/2016/10/04/topeka-girl-reports-being-chased-by-clown-with-knife/|title=Topeka girl reports being chased by clown with knife|date=2016-10-04|publisher=[[KSNT]]}}</ref><ref name="KXAN">{{cite web|url=http://kxan.com/2016/10/04/police-man-in-clown-costume-attacked-person-at-texas-state-housing/|date=2016-10-04|author=Jechow, Andy|title=Police: Clown attacks person at Texas State housing|publisher=[[KXAN-TV]]}}</ref><ref name="LJW">{{cite web |url=http://www2.ljworld.com/weblogs/crime_blog/2016/oct/4/lawrence-sorority-put-on-lockdown-after-/|title=Lawrence sorority put on lockdown after clown sightings, police say|author=Swanson, Conrad|date=2016-10-04|publisher=''[[Lawrence Journal World]]''}}</ref><ref name="southernutah">{{cite web|url=http://www.thespectrum.com/story/news/2016/10/04/clowns-startle-stgeorge-citizens/91543650/|title=Clowns startle Southern Utah citizens|date=2016-10-04|author=Havens, Emily|publisher=[[The Spectrum (Utah)|''The Spectrum'' (Utah)]]}}</ref><ref name="Sparky">{{cite news|url=http://www.ktvn.com/story/33317624/creepy-clown-sighting-reported-in-sparks|title=Creepy Clown Sighting Reported In Sparks|date=4 October 2016|first= Paul |last=Nelson|publisher=KTVN|location=Reno}}</ref><ref name="Toreador">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytoreador.com/news/statement-released-about-reports-of-clowns-on-campus/article_8a871138-8a4b-11e6-a02a-0ba559977648.html|title=Statement released about reports of clowns on campus|author=Morris, McKenzi|date=2016-10-04|publisher=''[[Daily Toreador]]''}}</ref><ref name="UDK">{{cite web|url=http://kansan.com/news/clowns-supposedly-spotted-in-lawrence/article_cfafefe4-89e9-11e6-b603-2bfd32c1e1d4.html|title=Clowns supposedly spotted in Lawrence|date=2016-10-03|author=Korte, Lara|publisher=''[[University Daily Kansan]]''}}</ref><ref name="WIBW">{{cite web|url=http://www.wibwnewsnow.com/police-warn-creepy-clown-participants/|title=Police Warn Creepy Clown Participants|date=2016-10-02|publisher=[[WIBW-TV]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.columbiatribune.com/news/crime/mid-missouri-authorities-get-more-clown-sighting-reports/article_514c1b64-c64c-58de-9ac2-d7005c97357f.html|title=Mid-Missouri authorities get more clown sighting reports|author=Burdziak, Alan|date=2016-10-04|publisher=''[[Columbia Daily Tribune]]''}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/2016/10/04/reports-creepy-clowns-prompting-lockdown-waukee-iowa-untrue/91531084/|title=Creepy clown sightings now in Iowa|author=Aguirre, Joey and Norvell, Kim|date=2016-10-04|publisher=''[[The Des Moines Register]]''}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.press-citizen.com/story/news/crime-and-courts/2016/10/04/university-iowa-police-notify-campus-clown-sightings/91534690/|title=University of Iowa police notify campus of clown sightings|date=2016-10-04|author=Gruber-Miller, Stephen|publisher=''[[Iowa City Press-Citizen]]''}}</ref> ==== Arizona ==== Two 17-year-old males allegedly robbed a [[Phoenix, AZ|Phoenix]] [[Taco Bell]] and [[Domino's Pizza]] while wearing clown masks. Both of the alleged robbers were armed with weapons, and a gun was fired once during one of the robberies, but no one was injured. The two were arrested for robbery.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nbc4i.com/2016/09/30/teens-arrested-after-multiple-clown-mask-robberies/|title=Teens arrested after multiple clown mask robberies|publisher=[[NBC4I]]}}</ref> ==== Arkansas & Missouri ==== Throughout the [[Ozarks]], sightings of clowns have become common. One driver reported seeing a clown lurking around by Republic High School during the night in Missouri. A clown was arrested in [[Downtown Bentonville]], [[Arkansas]] on October 5, 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.4029tv.com/news/Bentonville-police-arrest-scary-clown/41978036 |title=Bentonville police arrest scary clown |date=5 October 2016}}</ref> Clowns have also been sighted in [[Platte City, Missouri|Platte City]] and [[Joplin, Missouri]]. ==== California ==== On October 4, clowns threatened [[Fairfield, CA|Fairfield]], [[Sacramento]], and [[Vallejo, CA|Vallejo]] public school campuses.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/local/Twitter-Threats-From-Clowns-Span-From-Fairfield-California-to-Fairfield-Connecticut-395845791.html|title=Clowns Threaten Fairfield, Oakland Schools on Twitter|publisher=[[NBC Bay Area]]|date=October 4, 2016|accessdate=October 5, 2016}}</ref><ref name="KCRA">{{cite web|url=http://www.kcra.com/news/local-news/news-sacramento/threats-of-creepy-clowns-plague-sacramentoarea-schools/41951634|title=Threats of 'creepy clowns' plague Sacramento-area schools|publisher=[[KCRA]]|date=October 4, 2016}}</ref><ref name="KCRA"/> A clown sighting was reported in [[Temecula, CA|Temecula]].<ref name=abc7fontana"/> On October 5, a clown was accused of attempting to kidnap a one-year-old child in [[Concord, CA|Concord]]. No arrests have been yet made.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abc7news.com/news/clown-accused-of-attempting-to-kidnap-child-in-concord/1540861/|title=Clown accused of attempting to kidnap child in Concord|publisher=[[ABC7 News]]|date=October 4, 2016}}</ref> On October 5, in the [[Los Angeles County]] city of [[Lancaster, CA|Lancaster]], three incidents of groups of people wearing clown masks and possibly armed with kitchen knives were reported to the police. No injuries were reported.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.foxla.com/news/local-news/209764735-story|title='Creepy clowns' come to SoCal, police warn residents|publisher=[[FOX LA]]}}</ref> In [[San Pedro, Los Angeles]], two clowns were spotted by employees at Taper Avenue Elementary School & Technology Magnet. One clown allegedly had the writing "killer" printed on his mask.<ref>{{cite web|author=Salvo, Christina|url=http://abc7.com/news/2-dressed-as-clowns-creep-up-on-san-pedro-school-workers/1540272/|title=2 DRESSED AS CLOWNS CREEP UP ON SAN PEDRO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WORKERS|publisher=[[ABC7 News]]|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> In [[Northridge, Los Angeles|Northridge]], Los Angeles, at [[California State University, Northridge]], two students were chased down by a lone clown in the campus.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://sundial.csun.edu/2016/10/students-react-to-recent-clown-sighting-on-campus/|title=Students react to recent clown sighting on campus|last=Cruz|first=Glory Rose|date=2016-10-06|newspaper=The Sundial|language=en-US|access-date=2016-10-07}}</ref> A 14-year-old from [[Fontana, CA|Fontana]] was arrested for making clown-related threats towards schools.<ref name=abc7fontana">{{cite web|url=http://abc7.com/news/teen-arrested-for-fontana-killer-clown-scare-on-social-media/1541219/|title=TEEN ARRESTED FOR 'FONTANA KILLER CLOWN' SCARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA|publisher=[[ABC7 News]]|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> On October 6, clowns were spotted at multiple schools including ones in [[Moreno Valley]], Sacramento, and [[Beaumont, CA|Beaumont]]. One clown allegedly walked around the school campus with a sign that read "WEARECOMINGTOCALI." The Huntington Beach Police Department received reports of two separate clown sightings in [[Huntington Beach]]: one near a community park and two near a shopping center.<ref>{{cite web|title='Creepy clown' sightings hit Orange County; two reported in Huntington Beach|url=http://www.ocregister.com/articles/reported-731196-police-clowns.html|publisher=[[OC Register]]|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> On the same day, the [[Rohnert Park]] Department of Public Safety launched an investigation in response to nine clown sightings being reported in the city in the past few days. In nearby [[Santa Rosa, CA|Santa Rosa]], the [[Santa Rosa City Schools]] worked with the [[Santa Rosa Police Department]] to investigate clown-related threats made to the district's schools, which were apparently hoaxes.<ref name="morrisjd">{{cite web|author=Morris, J.D.|url=http://www.pressdemocrat.com/news/6171472-181/creepy-clown-threats-lead-to|title="Creepy clown" threats lead to investigations in Sonoma County|publisher=''[[Press Democrat]]''|date=October 7, 2016}}</ref> Social media reports of potential clown-related activity in the [[San Francisco Bay Area|Bay Area]]'s [[Antioch, CA|Antioch]] and [[Oakland, CA|Oakland]] schools lead to investigations by city police investigations.<ref name="morrisjd"/> [[Marysville, CA|Marysville]] police arrested a juvenile on a felony charge for allegedly making clown-related threats of shooting people at [[Yuba County]] schools.<ref>{{cite web|author=Heise, Sarah|url=http://www.kcra.com/news/local-news/news-sacramento/marysville-police-make-clown-arrest-after-threats/42005196|title=Marysville police make 'clown' arrest after threats|publisher=[[KCRA]]|date=October 7, 2016}}</ref> An 11-year-old boy from [[Salinas, CA|Salinas]] was cited for [[cyberbullying]] on October 8 for making clown threats towards Alisal Elementary School District schools.<ref>{{cite web|author=Cabanatuan, Michael|url=http://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/Salinas-boy-11-cited-after-admitting-making-9958361.php|title=Salinas boy, 11, cited after admitting making creepy clown threats|publisher=''[[San Francisco Chronicle]]''|date=October 9, 2016}}</ref> ====Colorado==== On October 6, an altercation occurred between a clown and a man at the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail in [[Colorado Springs]]. The man allegedly asked the clown to identify himself, who refused to do so, and the man punched the clown in the face. The clown then allegedly hit a bottle of [[whiskey]] over the man's head, resulting in him bleeding. No arrests have been made in the case.<ref>{{cite web|author=Dawidowicz, Christina|url=http://fox21news.com/2016/10/06/victim-describes-creepy-clown-attack-in-co-springs/|title=Victim describes creepy clown attack in Colorado Springs|publisher=[[FOX21 News]]|date=October 7, 2016|accessdate=October 8, 2016}}</ref> ====Connecticut==== High schools such as [[Eli Whitney Technical High School|Eli Whitney]], [[Wilbur Cross High School|Wilbur Cross]], [[Co-op High School|Co-Op]] and [[Hillhouse High School|James Hillhouse]] were threatened by "Jackson the Clown" on social media. Two girls were later arrested for the threats.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://wtnh.com/2016/10/04/naugatuck-police-arrest-2-girls-for-clown-social-media-posts/|title=Naugatuck police arrest 2 girls for clown social media posts|author=Macy Corica|date=October 4, 2016|work=WTNH Connecticut News|accessdate=8 October 2016}}</ref> ==== Florida ==== Numerous reports of creepy clowns sightings have been received by the Indian River County Sheriff's Office. In [[Indian River County]], on September 28, while walking her dog, a woman reported seeing a person in a clown costume come out from behind a tree. The person was dressed in a white clown costume, wore a mask, and had red hair.<ref name="lohud.com"/> On September 28, a group of classmates in the [[Vero Lake Estates]] area were chased by someone in a clown mask after getting off a bus.<ref name="lohud.com"/> A woman near Victoria Park reported sighting two clowns staring at her. Police alerted agencies in the surrounding area. They also conducted a search of railroad tracks and forest areas near US highway 1 but were unable to find the clowns.<ref name="lohud.com"/> Numerous Floridian schools were also put under [[lockdown]] due to the clown scare.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://hudsonvalley.news12.com/news/clown-scares-lock-down-village-of-florida-schools-1.12405382|title=Clown scares lock down village of Florida schools|publisher=[[News 12 Networks]] (Hudson Valley channel)|date=October 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.recordonline.com/news/20161004/local-school-locked-down-after-reports-of-clown-inside-school|title=Local school locked down after reports of clown inside the school|publisher=[[Times Herald-Record]]|author=Michael Randall|date=October 4, 2016}}</ref> Additionally, threats arose on social media from people masquerading as clowns, where they threaten to cause a [[school shooting]]. One of these "killer clowns" was discovered to be a 12-year-old boy, who said he was going to kill students at Pasco County schools and was subsequently arrested.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/news/crime-law/deputies-12-year-old-arrested-clown-threats-florid/nskpm/|title=Deputies: 12-year-old arrested for clown threats to Florida schools|publisher=[[The Palm Beach Post]]|author=Zach Dennis|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/news/crime-law/deputies-12-year-old-arrested-clown-threats-florid/nskpm/|title=Deputies: 12-year-old arrested for clown threats to Florida...|access-date=2016-10-07}}</ref> ==== Georgia ==== The [[LaGrange, Georgia|LaGrange]] Police Department received reports of clowns in a van luring children on September 12.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/lagrangepolicedept/posts/1388028421224814?match=Y2xvd25z|title=LaGrange Police - Timeline {{!}} Facebook|website=www.facebook.com|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref> Two people were later arrested for falsely reporting a clown sighting, and four were arrested for making a "terroristic threat" involving clown costumes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.11alive.com/news/local/ga-cops-make-terroristic-threat-arrests-after-clown-post/321945608|title=Ga. cops make 'terroristic threat' arrests after clown post|author=Kristen Reed|author2=Kaitlyn Ross|date=September 20, 2016|publisher=TEGNA|language=en-US|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref> Dublin Police Chief Tim Chatman stated that an individual involved in a car accident reported seeing a clown and swerved to avoid the clown, although no one saw a clown at the time of the incident.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.11alive.com/news/local/police-no-evidence-of-scary-clown-sightings-in-dublin/317881438 |title=Creepy clowns in Dublin?|author=Madison Cavalchire |date=12 September 2016}}</ref> ==== Idaho ==== In early October, reports of clowns walking around school campuses and around streets, some armed with weapons, were made in eastern Idaho, including [[Blackfoot, Idaho|Blackfoot]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Bryce, Debbie|url=http://idahostatejournal.com/members/creepy-clown-craze-infecting-east-idaho/article_783baa90-29a3-5e8d-b00b-79e843db38f8.html|title=Creepy clown craze infecting East Idaho|publisher=''[[Idaho State Journal]]''|date=October 9, 2016}}</ref> ==== Illinois ==== On October 4, multiple students at Greenwood Elementary School reported that three clowns, one with a briefcase, one with a handgun, and one with a knife, stood on the edge of the school's property and threatened the students. The clowns reportedly made threats to the students, and fled in an [[SUV]]. The incident is being investigated by the Waukegan Police Department.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fox32chicago.com/news/crime/209628617-story|title=Waukegan Police investigating after 3 clowns with knife and gun taunt children during recess|publisher=[[FOX32 Chicago]]|date=October 4, 2016|accessdate=October 6, 2016}}</ref> ==== Indiana ==== These sightings first began in the southern tip of the state and in the last couple weeks there have been attempts by individuals, mainly college students, to "hunt" these clowns as sightings continue to grow in their respective campuses and towns. The known campuses that have reported clown sightings are Purdue University, Indiana University, and Indiana State University. Many towns and cities have also had sightings including [[Brazil, Indiana|Brazil]], [[Terre Haute]], [[Shelbyville, Indiana|Shelbyville]], and suburbs of [[Indianapolis]].{{citation needed|date=October 2016}} ==== Kansas ==== On September 27, 2016, a clown was spotted creeping in the bushes near the intersection of 85th Street and [[Parallel Parkway]] in [[Kansas City, Kansas]].<ref name="KSHB"/> On October 1, 2016, in [[Topeka, Kansas|Topeka]], a clown was spotted near the intersection of Southeast 37th Street and Southeast Adams Street.<ref name="WIBW"/> A few days later on the morning of October 4, 2016, children waiting at a bus stop in the 2400 block of Southeast Colonial Drive witnessed a clown with a knife chasing a 13-year-old girl; however by the time police arrived, the clown was gone.<ref name="KSNT"/> During the day of October 4, in nearby [[Lawrence, Kansas]] several people reported seeing clowns lurking around the [[University of Kansas]] campus, with many witnesses posting photos to social media.<ref name="UDK"/> The clown sightings caused one [[Fraternities and sororities|sorority]] to go into [[lockdown]].<ref name="LJW"/> Clowns were also spotted in Lawrence near [[Lawrence Free State High School|Free State High School]], however upon investigation, those clowns were found to be harmless and were merely waving at passing cars.<ref name="LJW"/> Reports of clowns have also been made in the Kansas cities of [[Chanute, Kansas|Chanute]], [[Pittsburg, Kansas|Pittsburg]], and [[Parsons, Kansas|Parsons]]; however the Parsons report was later revealed to be a [[hoax]].<ref name="KOAM"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.parsonssun.com/news/article_e1c53770-89df-11e6-9270-778ddc95c3a3.html|title=Clown report was a hoax|date=2016-10-03|publisher=''Parsons Sun''}}</ref> ==== Kentucky ==== On September 23, 20-year-old Jonathan Martin was arrested for wearing a hood or mask in a public place, disorderly conduct and two outstanding warrants for non-payment of fines and failure to appear in court. Martin was found in a full "creepy" clown costume, lurking in wooded area near a Kentucky apartment block.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/09/23/lurking-clown-arrested-in-kentucky-woods-near-apartment-block-as/ |title=Lurking clown arrested in Kentucky woods near apartment block as US 'creepy clown' fears spread |date=23 September 2016 |publisher=The Telegraph}}</ref> On October 1, a woman reported that while she was walking on a trail at night, a clown came out of the woods, assaulted her and attempted to drag her into the woods. Officials reported that the woman was able to fight the clown off and escape, while also stating that this is the first clown sighting in Clark County.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wdrb.com/story/33293981/police-woman-attacked-by-man-in-clown-mask-in-winchester-ky |title=Police investigating report of a woman attacked by man in clown mask in Winchester, Ky. |date=1 October 2016 |publisher=WDRB 41 Louisville}}</ref> On the same day, a man in [[Bardstown, Kentucky|Bardstown]] mistook a woman wearing a white afghan out walking her dog for a clown and fired a warning shot with an [[Colt AR-15|AR-15]] to scare the clown.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/man-fires-ar15-dogwalker-creepy-clowns_us_57f53919e4b002a731201ef8|title=Man Allegedly Fires AR-15 To Scare Dogwalker He Mistook For Clown|author= Hilary Hanson|date=5 October 2016|work=The Huffington Post|accessdate=8 October 2016}}</ref> ==== Maine ==== On October 4, a person dressed as a clown was reported to have stood in an [[Orono, Maine|Orono]] neighborhood for approximately 15 minutes.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.wcsh6.com/news/local/police-to-clown-we-will-handle-you-accordingly/328814012|title=Police to clown: 'We will handle you accordingly'|author= Elle Ousfar |publisher=[[TEGNA]]|language=en-US|access-date=2016-10-04}}</ref> There have also been sightings in Standish, Kennebunk, Gorham and Porter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wcyy.com/maines-clown-hysteria-reaches-new-heights-sightings-in-kennebunk-gorham-and-standish-reported/|title=Maine's Clown Hysteria Reaches New Heights; Sightings In Kennebunk, Gorham, and Standish Reported|author=Joey|date=October 5, 2016|work=wcyy.com}}</ref> ==== Maryland ==== In October, clowns themed accounts through different social media outlets began sending out threats to shoot [[Prince George's County Public Schools|PGCPS]] county schools<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Prince-Georges-County-to-Have-Additional-Officers-at-Schools-on-Monday-395589471.html |title=Student Charged in Md. School Threats Case |date=3 October 2016 |publisher=NBC Washignton}}</ref> for fun{{citation needed|date=October 2016}}, although on October 3, Prince George's County Police arrested a [[Parkdale High School]] student connected to these threats. There were also clown sightings around the Maryland Area.{{citation needed|date=October 2016}} On October 4, 2016, a Facebook user named David Gates filmed a live feed of himself searching for a clown that was sighted standing in his driveway in the Golden Beach area in [[Mechanicsville, MD]]. The clown was described as wearing all black with red hair and an all-white face. The live feed reached around 200 viewers, but no clown was found and the police department was not called. During the live feed, it was discussed that there are clown pages on Instagram, containing lists and pictures that threaten several schools. In Early October, students from Western Heights Middle School in [[Hagerstown, MD]] claimed to have seen a clown outside of the school while they were on the basketball courts. This was later proved to be a hoax. ==== Massachusetts ==== On October 3, Monday night, students at [[Merrimack College]] were briefly told to shelter in place and a residence hall was evacuated after someone reported an armed clown on campus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://boston.cbslocal.com/2016/10/04/reported-creepy-clown-sightings-massachusetts-police-response/|title=Reported Creepy Clown Sightings At Mass. Schools Prompt Police Response|author=|date=|work=cbslocal.com}}</ref> ==== Michigan ==== At 3 am in the early morning of October 2, 2016, 17-year-old Chris Henckel spotted a clown standing at a [[car wash]] in [[Clinton Township, Macomb County, Michigan|Clinton Township]], a suburb of [[Detroit]], while driving through the area with friends.<ref name = "MI">{{cite news|url=http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/macomb-county/2016/10/03/clown-siting-clinton-township/91508862/|title=Police probe alleged clown attacks in Sterling Heights|author=Candice Williams|date=5 October 2016|work=detroitnews.com|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> While Henckel was not approached or harmed by the clown, he says that it attempted to follow his car.<ref name = "MI" /> Henckel posted a video of the encounter on [[Twitter]], where it went viral.<ref name ="MI"/> Clinton Township police declined to investigate the incident, as Henckel wasn't harmed and they haven't received any reports or complaints of strange clowns in the area.<ref name="MI"/> Henckel said he drove by the car wash multiple times afterwards in an attempt to find the clown again, but so far it hasn't reappeared.<ref name="MI"/> Two days later, on October 4, 2016, two clown attacks were reported in [[Sterling Heights, Michigan|Sterling Heights]], another Detroit suburb in close vicinity to Clinton Township. In the first incident, a seven-year-old boy was approached outside of his home at 6:50 pm by a person of an unspecified gender with "red hair, a red nose and red facial features" wielding a sharp object; the clown scratched the boy's arm with the object then fled, the boy only suffering a minor injury.<ref name="MI"/> Later that night at 8:30 pm, two women walking reported being approached by three adult males in clown masks, one of which was wielding a [[baseball bat]], who screamed obscenities, hit the bat against an adjacent fence and then ran away.<ref name="MI"/> Sterling Heights police are investigating both incidents and are seeking help from the public.<ref name="MI"/> On the same day, the police department of the Detroit suburb of [[Troy, Michigan|Troy]], which borders Sterling Heights, issued a notice that any clowns spotted trespassing at schools or on any private property will be automatically arrested and detained.<ref name="Troy">{{cite news|url=http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2016/10/04/troy-police-post-stern-message-to-clowns-amid-sightings-scares-nationwide/|title=Troy Police Post Stern Message To Clowns Amid Sightings, Scares Nationwide|author=|date=October 4, 2016|work=cbslocal.com}}</ref> The notice came after reports of clowns being spotted at area schools during classroom hours, as well as clown-related threats being made to area schools on twitter.<ref name="Troy" /> They also stated concern for the safety of the clowns, who they fear could be harmed by frightened civilians who may attempt to defend themselves.<ref name="Troy" /> On October 3 an anonymous man released a photograph of a clown spotted that night in [[Lake Orion, Michigan|Lake Orion]] He was spotted near an ice cream parlor across from a cemetery at the intersection of Indianwood and Lapeer. The clown did not approach and fled on foot right after the photograph was taken. On October 6, another incident occurred in [[Livonia, Michigan]] involving a man in a clown outfit robbing an [[Embassy Suites by Hilton]] at gunpoint. The suspect then led police on a chase that took them down Merriman Road where people in the surrounding area heard gunshots, [[Livonia Public Schools]] had all schools on lockdown until the situation was resolved. The same suspect was also involved in a second robbery at a [[Days Inn]] south of the first incident. The suspect is still at large at the time of this writing. Also on October 6, two 14-year-old girls were terrorized by two teenage women dressed as clowns, who jumped out of a car and chased them. In a press release after their arrest, the [[Roseville, Michigan|Roseville]] police chief referred to them as "morons" and "idiots".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/10/07/police-2-idiots-dressed-creepy-clowns-arrested-after-terrorizing-teens/91732806/|title=Police: 2 'idiots' dressed as 'creepy clowns,' arrested after terrorizing teens|author=Christina Hall|date=October 7, 2016|publisher=USA Today}}</ref> ==== Minnesota ==== A 15 year old girl from [[Bloomington, Minnesota|Bloomington]] created a "Kroacky Klown" [[Facebook]] profile and made threats to "kill" in Bloomington and other cities. After police interviewed the girl, she explained she created the profile on her younger sister's phone to scare her boyfriend but "the situation got out of control and went viral," police said.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/4130282-creepy-clown-phenomenon-hitting-minnesota-no-truth-sightings-officials-say|title=Creepy clown phenomenon hitting Minnesota; no truth to sightings, officials say|author=Bob Shaw|date=Oct 5, 2016|work=duluthnewstribune.com|accessdate=8 October 2016}}</ref> ==== Mississippi ==== On September 21 in [[Tchula, Mississippi|Tchula]], Police Chief Kenneth Hampton reported seeing a clown wearing a multi-colored wig, overalls, and a mask carrying what appeared to be a machete. Upon seeing the police car, the clown fled. His or her whereabouts remain unknown.<ref name="auto"/> ==== Nebraska ==== In early October, clowns were spotted in [[Lincoln, NE|Lincoln]] and [[Grand Island, NE|Grand Island]]. On October 5, four teenage clowns were arrested for terroristic threats in Grand Island. One was in possession of a [[BB gun]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Manna, Nichole|url=http://journalstar.com/news/local/911/clowns-spotted-in-lincoln-teen-clowns-arrested-in-grand-island/article_004b7d51-b842-5859-9455-47c635278b1d.html|title=Clowns spotted in Lincoln; teen clowns arrested in Grand Island|publisher=''[[Lincoln Journal Star|Journal Star]]''|date=October 6, 2016|accessdate=October 6, 2016}}</ref> ==== Nevada ==== In [[Sparks, Nevada]], three men were chased by a suspicious man, dressed like a clown wielding a [[machete]] near the Shadow Mountain Sports Complex.<ref name="Sparky"/> ==== New Jersey ==== In [[Phillipsburg, New Jersey]], a boy claims to have been chased by a clown with a sword. The boy says that he heard the clown say "I’m gonna get cha".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/09/28/new-jersey-creepy-clowns/|title=New Jersey Child Says He Was Chased By Creepy Clown With Sword|publisher=CBS|date=September 28, 2016|author=Vanessa Murdock}}</ref> In [[Fair Lawn, New Jersey]], two people were arrested after scaring a driver. In [[Toms River, New Jersey|Toms River]], a 12 and 14-year-old girl were arrested for making separate clown hoaxes. Clowns were also spotted in [[Bound Brook, New Jersey]], [[Monroe Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey|Monroe, New Jersey]], [[North Plainfield, New Jersey]], and [[Spotswood, New Jersey]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2016/10/03/creepy-clowns-spotted-bound-brook-spotswood/91473014/|title=Creepy clowns spotted in Bound Brook, Spotswood|author=Suzanne Russell|date=October 3, 2016|publisher=[[Courier News|My Central Jersey]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.mycentraljersey.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2016/10/04/latest-creepy-clown-sighting-no-laughing-manner/91565906/|title=Latest 'creepy clown' sighting no laughing matter|author=Suzanne Russell|date=October 4, 2016|publisher=[[Courier News|My Central Jersey]]}}</ref> ==== New Mexico ==== In the first week of October, police in [[Hobbs, NM|Hobbs]] received multiple reports of clown sightings. No arrests have yet been made.<ref>{{cite web|author=Cope, Cheyenne|url=http://krqe.com/2016/10/04/hobbs-police-receiving-calls-about-clown-sightings/|title=Hobbs Police receiving calls about clown sightings|publisher=[[KRQE]]|date=October 4, 2016|accessdate=October 7, 2016}}</ref> In the second week of October, there were reports of clowns armed with baseball bats walking around [[Roswell, New Mexico|Roswell]].<ref name="abq"/> On October 9, three juveniles with clown masks were arrested outside a children's clothing store in [[Albuquerque]]. They were found in possession of a firearm.<ref name="abq">{{cite web|url=http://www.foxnews.com/us/2016/10/09/3-juveniles-in-albuquerque-caught-with-clown-masks-handgun.html|title=3 juveniles in Albuquerque caught with clown masks, handgun|publisher=[[Associated Press]]|date=October 9, 2016}}</ref> ==== New York ==== On September 28 and 29 sightings were reported in [[Brentwood, New York|Brentwood]] and [[North Babylon, New York|North Babylon]] on [[Long Island]].<ref name=":1">{{cite news|url=http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/09/30/creepy-clowns-long-island/|title=Creepy Clown Sightings Reported In and Clifton Park and Brentwood, North Babylon|access-date=2016-10-01|date=September 30, 2016}}</ref> The [[North Babylon Union Free School District|North Babylon School District]] and Shenendehowa School District went on "lockout" the following day, and the Lindenhurst School District employed precautions.<ref name=":1" /> A "lockout" means that nobody is allowed to enter or leave during class hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.teenvogue.com/story/clown-related-threats-cause-long-island-high-school-lockdown|title=Two Schools Just Went on Lockdown Because of 'Clown-Related Threats'|first=Kate|last=Dwyer|publisher=[[Teen Vogue]]|date=September 28, 2016}}</ref> A Twitter account called "[[Suffolk County, New York|Suffolk]] Clowns" ([https://twitter.com/liclowns @LIClowns]) emerged, making (possibly joking) threats to numerous school districts and posting pictures of clowns. However, the account has since been suspended. ===== Clown hunting ===== After an alleged clown sighting at [[St. Bonaventure University]], school officials issued a statement on October 5th requesting that students not take matters into their own hands when confronting potentially dangerous situations. Reports say that students had created a sign-up sheet for an "Anti-Clown Army" and students were later seen roaming the campus armed with baseball bats.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.twcnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2016/10/5/st--bonaventure-university-officials-clowns-students-attack.html |St. Bonaventure University Officials Urge Students to Not Attack Clowns |date=5 October 2016 |publisher=Time Warner Cable News}}</ref> ==== North Carolina ==== On September 4, children in a Winston-Salem neighborhood reported to police about a clown attempting to lure them into some woods. They described him as wearing white overalls and gloves, red shoes, and bushy, red hair. His face was described as white with a red nose. They claim that he offered them treats if they would go with him. According to police, an adult heard, but did not see, the clown.<ref name="auto"/> On September 7, a witness reported seeing a person wearing a scary clown mask, red curly wig, yellow dotted shirt, blue clown pants and clown shoes exited the woods by an apartment complex around 10 a.m. in Greensboro, although the clown disappeared after another witness attempted to chase down the clown with a machete.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/man-machete-chases-clown-spotted-woods-nc-article-1.2781439 |title=Man with machete chases after clown spotted near woods in Greensboro, North Carolina |publisher=nydailynews.com |date=7 September 2016}}</ref> ==== Ohio ==== On September 27 at about 2 am, a woman called [[Lancaster, Ohio|Lancaster]] police and reported that she had seen a clown with a large kitchen knife in its hand. Witnesses at the location told police that they had seen two clowns, one wearing a gold suit with balloon and the other wearing all black. Police failed to find them.<ref name="auto">{{cite news|url=http://www.wfmynews2.com/news/nation/what-we-know-about-creepy-clown-reports/328041526|title=What We Know About Creepy Clown Reports|first=Ashley|last=May|date=September 30, 2016|publisher=}}</ref> On September 29, a woman was attacked while on her porch while she was smoking. She claimed that a man dressed as a clown grabbed her throat and said "I should just kill you now..."<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|url=http://www.abc15.com/news/national/creepy-clown-sightings-increase-across-greater-cincinnati|title=Clown attack forces several schools in Ohio to cancel Friday's classes|author=T.J. Parker|author2=Rose-Ann Aragon|author3=WCPO Staff|date=30 September 2016|publisher=ABC}}</ref> The victim also stated that he said that "some students and teachers would wish they were never born at the junior and senior high school today."<ref name="auto1"/> That prompted [[Reading, Ohio|Reading]] school superintendent Chuck LaFata to cancel Friday classes in the area, prompting local private school [[Mount Notre Dame High School|Mount Notre Dame]] to close as well.<ref name="auto1"/><ref name="fox4">{{cite web|url=http://fox4kc.com/2016/09/30/school-district-shuts-down-after-creepy-clown-attack/|title=School district shuts down after creepy clown attack|date=2016-09-30|publisher=[[WDAF-TV]]}}</ref> Also, a junior high student was arrested after making a clown-related threat using the Internet.<ref name="auto1"/> On Sunday, October 2, a total of seven people were arrested in [[Cincinnati]] area over clown-related threats. These students were charged with inciting panic for allegedly suggesting a "Clown Clan" descend on their schools.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/seven-now-arrested-over-clown-threats-in-ohio/ |title=More arrests in Ohio amid growing rash of clown-related threats |date=2 October 2016 |publisher=CBS news}}</ref> On October 4, a [[Speedway LLC|Speedway]] gas station in [[Dayton, Ohio]] was robbed by three individuals, one wearing a surgical mask, one a [[Guy Fawkes mask]] and one a clown mask.<ref name="speedwayrobbery">{{Cite news|url=http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/crime--law/can-you-pipe-wielding-suspects-masks-who-rob-speedway/g6kge3S0jJRJvbOJTWlMcK/|title=Can you ID pipe-wielding suspects in masks who rob Speedway?|publisher=[[Dayton Daily News]]|date=October 4, 2016|accessdate=October 5, 2016}}</ref> In response to the various incidents, the sheriff of [[Darke County, Ohio]], Toby Spencer, posted a challenge to those who might consider pulling a clown prank, that "...as of today we have issued 6,125 (concealed carry) permits in Darke County alone. You might also ask yourself how your luck will be today."<ref name="darkesheriff">{{Cite news|url=http://www.mydaytondailynews.com/news/news/clown-chaos-leads-to-school-closings-felony-arrest/nshyd/|title=Clown chaos leads to school closings, felony arrest|first=Jeremy P.|last=Kelley|publisher=Dayton Daily News|date=September 30, 2016|accessdate=October 5, 2016}}</ref> '''Oklahoma''' There have been sightings in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Moore, Oklahoma, [[McAlester, Oklahoma]], Tulsa, Oklahoma, and [[Chickasha, Oklahoma]] as well as [[Miami, Oklahoma]].<ref name="KCTV" /><ref name="KOAM" /> During the evening of October 7, 2016, several residents of a Moore, Oklahoma neighborhood confronted two individuals clad in clown attire, warning them of the serious consequences they could face if they persisted in their activities. The two clowns had apparently been loitering at a neighborhood playground, lurking around suspiciously and scaring children. During the confrontation one clown fled, but the other clown stayed for the duration of the lecture, eventually coming to see the truth in what the residents were saying - and removing his clown costume.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://kfor.com/2016/10/07/theyre-going-to-get-hurt-moore-residents-confront-creepy-clowns-lurking-near-park/|title="They’re going to get hurt," Moore residents confront ‘creepy clowns’ lurking near park|date=2016-10-08|website=KFOR.com|access-date=2016-10-08}}</ref> ==== Oregon ==== A woman reported on September 30 that a clown tried to break into her car near the [[O'Bryant Square]] in [[Portland, Oregon|Portland]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2016/09/woman_says_she_was_attacked_by.html|title=Woman says she was accosted by clown in downtown Portland|publisher=[[Oregon Live]]|date=September 30, 2016}}</ref> A man was arrested in [[Central Point, Oregon|Central Point]] on October 5 after posting pictures of himself dressed as a clown and trespassing at various local high schools. He was booked into the [[Jackson County, Oregon|Jackson County]] Jail and faces charges of disorderly conduct and second-degree trespassing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kgw.com/news/local/southern-oregon/scary-clown-arrest-made-in-southern-oregon/329458177|title=Scary clown arrest made in southern Oregon|publisher=[[KGW]]|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> On October 6, a 55-year-old man in a clown mask was arrested for menacing at Floyd Light Middle School in Portland. An assistant principal confronted the man, who then allegedly threatened to hurt him. The suspect is facing charges of menacing and disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kgw.com/news/crime/man-wearing-clown-mask-boxing-gloves-threatens-assistant-principal-outside-school/329621924|title=Man wearing clown mask, boxing gloves threatens assistant principal outside school|publisher=[[KGW]]|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> ==== Pennsylvania ==== On September 18, 2016, in [[Pennsylvania State College|State College]], a clown was seen acting strangely at the parking lot of a [[YMCA]] early in the morning.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.collegian.psu.edu/news/crime_courts/article_5057d71c-7dfe-11e6-8c36-9f408d3390b9.html |title=Strange clown sightings by State College YMCA |date=18 September 2016}}</ref> In late September, reports stated that an individual dressed as an angry clown was seen with a knife around the wooded areas behind of [[Wilkes-Barre Area School District|Kistler Elementary School]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.publicopiniononline.com/story/news/local/2016/09/23/pa-clown-sightings-police-responding-another-possible-incident/90896158/ |title=Pa. clown sightings: Police responding to another possible incident |date=23 September 2016}}</ref> Rumors of a clown threatening the Cumberland Valley school district have also been reported. A [[Reading Senior High School (Reading, Pennsylvania)|Reading High School]] student was stabbed and killed by someone in a clown mask on September 25.<ref name="pennlive.com"/> [[York College of Pennsylvania|York College]] students have reported numerous sightings on and off the campus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/09/27/clown-sightings-reach-york-college/91181900/|title=Clown sightings reach York College|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref> Both the Erie Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that in the city of Erie, there has been multiple clown sightings during the month of September.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.erienewsnow.com/story/33267243/creepy-clown-sightings-reported-in-erie |title=Creepy Clown Sightings Reported in Erie |date=4 October 2016}}</ref> On October 3, 2016, the Pennsylvania State Police issued a "Community Awareness Bulletin" which specifically addressed the "creepy clown" reports that have been appearing in news and social media around the country. The general tone of the bulletin was cautionary, yet at the same time it reinforced the notion that many of the threats specific to clowns attacking schools had "not been validated". The bulletin also recalls the 1980's clown sightings in various US cities, as well as providing a phone number, email address and information about a smartphone app that citizens can use to report suspicious behavior to authorities. <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.psp.pa.gov/for%20media/Documents/socialmedia/CAB%20005-16.pdf|title=|last=|first=|date=|website=|publisher=|access-date=}}</ref> ===== Clown hunting ===== After an alleged clown sighting at [[University Park, Pennsylvania|University Park]], on October 3, [[Pennsylvania State University|Penn State]] students gathered together for a "clown hunt". Reports say that the number of students attended this hunt ranged from 500 to 1,000. Following the riot/hunt, the police stated that they did not believe that there were any actual clown sightings, but also stated that there was no property damage, no injury and no violence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.centredaily.com/news/local/article105808156.html |title=Penn State students flood downtown, campus over clowns |date=4 October 2016 |publisher=Centre Daily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://heavy.com/news/2016/10/creepy-clowns-penn-state-riot-lock-down-campus-college-threatening-video-pennsylvania/ |title=Penn State Creepy Clowns: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know |date=4 October 2016 |publisher=Heavy}}</ref> ==== Puerto Rico ==== At least ten cases of clown sightings were reported in [[Puerto Rico]], including a clown being reported lurking around a [[Guaynabo]] home.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telemundopr.com/noticias/Alegan-que-Payaso-misterioso-acecha-residencia-en-Guaynabo-telemundo-puerto-rico-396453041.html|title=They argue that clown stalks residence in Guaynabo|publisher=''[[Telemundo]]''|date=October 9, 2016|language=Spanish}}</ref> ==== Rhode Island ==== On October 4, 2016, the Providence Journal reported that social media threats were made against Tolman High School and Goff Junior High in Pawtucket that prompted rumors of clown sightings. There was also reports of a clown with a machete chased people out of Slater Park on three separate occasion and that a clown was seen hanging around schools in the same city.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.providencejournal.com/news/20161004/like-war-of-worlds-ri-police-grapple-with-creepy-clown-hysteria |title='Like War of the Worlds': R.I. police grapple with 'creepy clown' hysteria |date=4 October 2016 |publisher=Providence Journal}}</ref> A teenage boy was arrested soon after for making threats against schools on social media involving clown masks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.providencejournal.com/news/20161007/pawtucket-teenager-arrested-charged-with-clown-threats-against-school |title=Pawtucket teenager arrested, charged with clown threats against school |date=7 October 2016 |publisher=Providence Journal}}</ref> ==== South Carolina ==== Although sightings were initially reported in South Carolina in mid-August, the phenomenon began to spread north from late August through the end of September.<ref name=":0" /> On August 21, 2016, there was an alleged clown sighting in Greenville, SC at the Fleetwood Manor Apartment complex. Children in the complex reportedly witnessed clowns or a group of clowns attempting to whisper or talk to the children. The children told their parents that the clowns, equipped with “flashing green laser lights”, said they lived in an abandoned house in the woods near a small lake. Greenville police came to the complex to investigate, and did find a trail in the woods leading to a house and a small lake, but no evidence of clowns or clown paraphernalia was found.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/clown-sightings-south-carolina-creepy-details-released/|title=Creepy details released in South Carolina clown sightings|access-date=2016-10-07}}</ref> While some of these reports have been harmless, others reports have been more suspicious. In one instances, a woman reported a person in a clown costume was standing in her backyard and ran away as she took a picture.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://fox6now.com/2016/09/01/this-is-serious-creepy-clown-sightings-reported-in-second-community-in-south-carolina/ |title="This is serious:" Creepy clown sightings reported in second community in South Carolina |date=1 September 2016 |publisher=Fox 6}}</ref> In one case, an individual had heard clanging chains and a banging noise at his front door. While other cases report a clown offering money or candy to children to follow the clown into the woods.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/31/us/creepy-clown-sightings-in-south-carolina-cause-a-frenzy.html |title=Creepy Clown Sightings in South Carolina Cause a Frenzy |date=30 August 2016 |publisher=New York Times}}</ref> ==== Texas ==== On October 3, 2016, a clown attacked a person at a housing complex at [[Texas State University]].<ref name="KXAN"/> The victim said the alleged clown tried to grab her before she could pull away. The suspect then left in an unknown direction, according to University police.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.kvue.com/news/local/texas-state-student-attacked-by-man-dressed-as-clown-school-says/329059619|title=Texas State student attacked by man dressed as clown, school says|last=TEGNA|newspaper=KVUE|language=en-US|access-date=2016-10-07}}</ref> A report of a creepy clown on the campus of [[Texas Tech University]] was also made to police in Lubbock, Texas on October 3, 2016.<ref name="Toreador"/> On October 5, 2016, the Tuloso-Midway Independent School District, which has about 4,000 students in its five schools, ordered a lockdown about 9 a.m. Wednesday after a bus driver and a monitor on the bus said they saw a clown sitting inside a vehicle near one of the schools, superintendent Sue Nelson said.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://time.com/4520262/texas-school-clown-lockdown/|title=Texas School District on Lockdown After 2 Clown Sightings|last=Chan|first=Melissa|website=TIME.com|access-date=2016-10-07}}</ref> On the morning of October 6, residents reported that a clown was knocking on doors of homes in a [[Manor, Texas|Manor]] neighborhood. An 18-year-old man was arrested, and police found a clown mask that belonged to the suspect.<ref>{{cite web|author=Ricke, Claire; Rangel, Leslie|url=http://kxan.com/2016/10/06/police-arrest-masked-clown-in-manor/|title=Masked clown arrested in Manor|publisher=[[KXAN]]|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> ==== Utah ==== On October 3, 2016, in [[St. George, Utah]], a woman reported to police that while she was walking, someone dressed as a clown had exited a vehicle and chased her, though in followup interviews she clarified that the individual had merely stared at her without saying or doing anything to her.<ref name="southernutah" /> Also on October 3, 2016, near midnight in [[Provo, Utah]], a woman reported to police that someone dressed as a clown ran across her suburban yard.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/one-confirmed-clown-sighting-in-provo-among-dozens-of-concerned/article_3f0dce0a-9140-5f9b-87bf-197c79a78cd6.html|title=One confirmed clown sighting in Provo among dozens of concerned reports|date=2016-10-04|author=Hanson, Kurt|publisher=[[Daily Herald (Utah)|''The Daily Herald'' (Utah)]]}}</ref> ==== Vermont ==== In [[Williston, Vermont|Williston]] on October 5, a 15-year-old boy was arrested after being accused of wearing a clown mask and banging the classroom windows of Jean Garvin Youth and Family Services School. He faces charges of disorderly conduct and inducing panic.<ref>{{cite web|author=McKend, Eva|url=http://www.wcax.com/story/33325362/creepy-clown-panics-students-staff-at-vt-school|title=Robocalls released after creepy clown panics students, staff at Vt. school|publisher=[[WCAX]]|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> ==== Virginia ==== The Augusta County Sheriff's Office were notified about clown sightings many times; Virginia law prohibits anyone over 16 from wearing a mask to conceal one's identity, which has resulted in uneventful Halloween costume contests at bars and other venues.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newsleader.com/story/news/local/2016/09/25/augusta-county-sheriff-warns-possible-clown-sightings/91100430/|title=Sheriff warns of possible clown sightings in county|access-date=2016-10-01}}</ref> ==== Washington ==== On October 3, several students at Rogers High School in [[Puyallup, WA|Puyallup]] received text messages of a clown threatening to kill students at the school. A person reported that a clown was seen wielding a knife near the school campus on the following morning. The school was put on lockdown on October 4, and police found two clown masks in the woods adjacent to the school. Two other Pierce County schools, [[Emerald Ridge High School]] and Glacier View Junior High, were closed down on October 4 due to threats. The case is being investigated by both the [[Pierce County Sheriff's Office]] and the [[FBI]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Robertson, Kipp|url=http://mynorthwest.com/410319/threat-forces-administration-to-close-puyallup-schools/|title=Puyallup school locked down after reports of knife-wielding clowns|publisher=[[MyNorthWest]]|date=October 4, 2016}}</ref> ==== Wisconsin ==== On August 1, 2016, near the beginning of this spate of evil clown sightings, Wisconsin residents reported seeing [[Gags The Green Bay Clown]]. There has been speculation that this clown is related to an independent horror film due to premiere around Halloween.<ref name="lohud.com">{{cite news|url=http://www.lohud.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/09/28/what-we-know-creepy-clown-reports-across-nation/91171858/|title=Serious or just a sick joke? What we know about creepy clown reports|author=Ashley May|date=28 September 2016|work=[[The Journal News|lohud.com]]|accessdate=7 October 2016}}</ref> ===Canada=== The first instance in Canada was reported in early August with few or none until October. During the first week of October, nearly all provinces had reported sightings. ====Alberta==== On October 5 in [[Edmonton]], [[Harry Ainlay High School]] was put into lock down due to clown scare on social media.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://edmontonjournal.com/news/crime/harry-ainlay-high-school-locked-down-after-alleged-online-threat-against-staff-member|title=Suspect arrested after lockdown at Harry Ainlay High School, 'creepy clown' causes social media scare|author=Paige Parsons|date=5 October 2016|work=edmontonjournal.com|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> The following day, other incidents in the city were reported at a Catholic school and junior high schools.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2988671/alleged-clowning-threat-places-northeast-edmonton-school-on-alert/|title=Alleged ‘clowning’ threat places northeast Edmonton school on alert|author=Caley Ramsay|date=6 October 2016|work=Global News|accessdate=7 October 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.edmontonsun.com/2016/10/06/two-youths-charged-after-inciting-violence-against-staff-students-at-edmonton-schools|title=Two youths charged after ‘inciting violence’ against staff, students at Edmonton schools|author=Juris Graney|date=6 October 2016|work=Edmonton Sun|accessdate=7 October 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2990276/3rd-teen-charged-after-threat-made-to-edmonton-school-on-social-media/|title=3rd teen charged after threat made against Edmonton school on social media|author=Emily Mertz|date=7 October 2016|work=Global News|accessdate=7 October 2016}}</ref> As well, two incidents of clown sighting occurred in [[Fort Saskatchewan]], a city direct northeast of Edmonton.<ref name="Fort Sask Sighting">{{cite news|last1=Romero|first1=Diego|title=Two ‘creepy clown’ sightings in Fort Saskatchewan: RCMP|url=http://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/two-creepy-clown-sightings-in-fort-saskatchewan-rcmp-1.3104818|website=CTV News Edmonton|publisher=Bell Media|accessdate=October 7, 2016|location=Fort Saskatchewan|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> Later a 15-year-old youth admitted dressing up as one of the clowns to [[Royal Canadian Mounted Police|RCMP]] in Fort Saskatchewan.<ref name="RCMP Fort Sask">{{cite news|last1=Mertz|first1=Emily|title=Young man in clown mask identifies himself to Fort Saskatchewan RCMP|url=|accessdate=October 7, 2016|agency=Global News Edmonton|publisher=Corus Entertainment Inc.|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> Elsewhere in the province, the [[Calgary]] Police Service received messages from several Calgarians regarding images depicting clowns in the city.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.metronews.ca/news/calgary/2016/10/06/killer-clowns-in-calgary-causing-concern.html|title=Calgary group ready to defend city from killer clowns|author=Mathew Silver|date=5 October 2016|work=metronews.ca|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> ====British Columbia==== On October 5 in [[Langley, British Columbia (city)|Langley]], several Stafford Middle School boys were "terrified" when two teenagers wearing clown costumes leaped out from behind bushes and then chased them while they were on their way to school. The incident was reported to the RCMP. On October 6, two teenaged boys were placed under arrest following a threat which following a threat that caused schools in the Prince George area to be locked down. The teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were arrested at a high school in the area.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://vancouversun.com/storyline/creepy-clowns-social-media-fuelled-scare-makes-its-way-to-b-c|title=Creepy clowns: Social-media fuelled scare makes its way to B.C.|author=|date=6 October 2016|work=vancouversun.com}}</ref> ====Manitoba==== In [[Winnipeg]] rumours of clown sightings were reported at [[Collège Sturgeon Heights Collegiate]]. This prompted [[St. James-Assiniboia School Division]] to start an investigation about reports, they concluded that the image was just an accidental image taken of a student in a nearby field.<ref name="CBC Manitoba">{{cite news|last1=Purdy|first1=Brett|title=Winnipeg clown says creepy clowns giving clowns a bad name|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/manitoba/clown-calling-end-creepy-clown-phenomenon-1.3794678|accessdate=October 7, 2016|agency=CBC News Manitoba|publisher=CBC/Radio-Canada|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> ====New Brunswick==== Police are investigating several encounters with creepy clowns in New Brunswick communities. A person dressed as a clown was seen trying to jump out in front of cars in [[Ripples, New Brunswick|Ripples]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraphjournal.com/telegraph-journal/story/48797201/are-creepy-clowns-scaring|title=Update: Police investigating several creepy clown encounters in New Brunswick|author=Laverne Stewarts|date=6 October 2016|work=Telegraph-Journal|accessdate=6 October 2016|subscription=yes}}</ref> ====Newfoundland and Labrador==== A complaint about a 'creepy clown' was revived by local authorities prompting an investigation in [[Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador|Gander]], central Newfoundland.<ref name="NTV Clowns">{{cite news|title=Police called to ‘creepy clown’ complaint in central Newfoundland|url=http://ntv.ca/police-called-to-creepy-clown-complaint-in-central-newfoundland/|accessdate=October 7, 2016|agency=NTV|publisher=Newfoundland Broadcasting Company, Ltd.|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref><ref name="VOCM Newfoundland">{{cite news|title=Beni Malone Fights Back Against ‘Creepy Clown’ Hysteria|url=http://vocm.com/news/clown-fights-back-against-creepy-clown-hysteria/|accessdate=October 7, 2016|agency=VOCM (AM)|publisher=Newcap Radio|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> The week of October 3rd, a clown was spotted at the end of a suburban street outside of St. John's ====Nova Scotia==== In early October, clowns were sighted in [[Halifax, Nova Scotia|Halifax]], [[Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia|Hammonds Plains]] and [[Dartmouth, Nova Scotia]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.metronews.ca/news/halifax/2016/10/04/halifax-police-creepy-clown-sightings-not-wise-thing-to-do.html?cq_ck=1475616467089|title=Stop clowning around: Halifax police say creepy clown sightings not 'wise thing to do'|author= Nicole Gnazdowsky|date=4 October 2016|work=metronews.ca|accessdate=4 October 2016}}</ref> Police responded to a clown sighting at [[Halifax West High School]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.nationalpost.com/news/canada/photo-on-instagram-showing-clown-outside-halifax-high-school-draws-police-investigation|title=Photo on Instagram showing clown outside Halifax high school draws police investigation|date=4 October 2016|work=National Post|accessdate=5 October 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://thechronicleherald.ca/metro/1402818-police-respond-to-clown-report-at-halifax-west-high-school|title=Police respond to clown report at Halifax West High School|date=4 October 2016|work=The Chronicle Herald|accessdate=4 October 2016}}</ref> Clowns in [[Glace Bay]] have also interfered with traffic.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/a-nightmare-coming-true-gangs-of-clowns-terrorize-n-s-drivers-1.3097450|title='A nightmare coming true': Gangs of clowns terrorize N.S. drivers|author=Jeff Lagerquist|date=1 October 2016|work=CTVNews|accessdate=4 October 2016}}</ref> Police in [[Clark's Harbour]] have arrested a 24-year-old man wearing a clown mask. Witnesses reported that he grabbed at the clothing of a young boy.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://globalnews.ca/news/2987082/man-wearing-creepy-clown-mask-arrested-in-southwestern-nova-scotia/|title=Man wearing creepy clown mask arrested in southwestern Nova Scotia|date=6 October 2016|work=Global News|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> ====Ontario==== In early October, clowns were spotted chasing children during dismissal at Pope Francis Catholic School, an elementary school in Toronto. Police detained two 15-year-olds in connection with the incident. It is believed they are former students of the school, and they were filming their activities for a [[YouTube]] video. Police have said that the suspects did not touch the students.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cp24.com/news/two-people-in-clown-costumes-chased-students-at-west-end-school-police-1.3103324|title=Teen in clown costume chases students at west-end school: police|author=Chris Fox|date=5 October 2016|work=cp24.com|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> In addition, the [[Toronto Catholic District School Board]] spokesperson John Yan said that a group named "Clowns in the 6" have specifically named different high schools in Toronto as targets for potential clown attacks.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/group-of-clowns-threaten-taunt-tcdsb-students-1.3103333|title=Group of clowns threaten, taunt TCDSB students|author=Courtney Greenberg|date=5 October 2016|work=ctvnews.ca|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> On Thursday, October 6, 2016, Clowns made a message on Instagram saying: "We are coming to [[London, Ontario]]'s high schools and surrounding areas. We are going to kidnap students and behead teachers, we're not clowning around."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lfpress.com/2016/10/06/threat-says-clowns-coming-to-all-london-high-schools-to-kidnap-students-and-kill-teachers|title=Clown threat sent to London high school students|first=|last=nurun.com|date=|work=lfpress.com}}</ref> ====Quebec==== On August 9, clowns were reported to have been chasing children in [[Gatineau]], Quebec.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.metronews.ca/news/ottawa/2016/08/10/police-investigating-after-clowns-scare-kids-in-gatineau.html|title=Police investigating after creepy clowns chase kids in Gatineau|author=Haley Ritchie|date=10 August 2016|work=metronews.ca|accessdate=4 October 2016}}</ref> On October 2, a video surfaced of a clown in the middle of a dirt road in Quebec, with a chainsaw that chased after a car on foot. ===United Kingdom=== ====England==== The sightings appear to have spread to [[North East England]]'s [[Newcastle upon Tyne]]. Police in Northumbria stated that six reports have been made about creepy clown incidents since the beginning of October. Although nobody was attacked during those incidents, some of the reports involve clowns jumping out of bushes to frighten children with other reports of clowns chasing people.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/clownageddon-comes-uk-newcastle-schoolchildren-targetted-by-creepy-clown-attacks-1584809|title=Clownageddon comes to the UK as Newcastle schoolchildren targeted by 'creepy clown' attacks|first=Tom|last=Porter|date=4 October 2016|work=ibtimes.co.uk|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/children-distressed-clowns-leaping-undergrowth-11978977|title=Children 'distressed' by 'pranksters' in clown costumes|first=Hannah|last=Graham|date=4 October 2016|work=chroniclelive.co.uk|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> On October 4, a teenage boy in [[Blakelaw]], Newcastle upon Tyne, was placed under arrest as a suspect in a clown-themed "prank".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-news/clown-prank-teenager-arrested-allegedly-11980153|title=Clown prank: teenager arrested for allegedly carrying a "bladed article"|first=Hannah|last=Graham|date=4 October 2016|work=chroniclelive.co.uk|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> He was allegedly in possession of a "bladed article" and is suspected to have been involved in one of these six incidents. On October 7, a masked man with a painted face and carrying a knife, jumped out and chased two pupils, aged 11 and 12, who were on their way to [[The Hermitage Academy|Hermitage Academy]] in [[Chester-le-Street]], [[County Durham]], leaving the two pupils distressed but unhurt. [[Durham Constabulary]] said it is investigating the incident.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2016/oct/07/knife-wielding-killer-clown-pursues-durham-schoolchildren|title=Knife-wielding 'killer clown' pursues Durham schoolchildren|first=Press|last=Association|date=7 October 2016|publisher=|via=The Guardian}}</ref> On the night of October 7, a man in [[Plymouth]], [[South West England]], was confronted by a clown with a hammer while walking back home from a [[Tesco]] supermarket. The clown stood in front of the man, blocking his path and then refused to move when asked before the man chased the clown away. [[Devon and Cornwall Police]] are investigating the incident.<ref>{{cite web|author=Shaw, Neil|url=http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/creepy-clown-armed-hammer-confronts-9004945|title=Creepy clown armed with hammer confronts man - then gets chased down street with beer bottle|publisher=[[Mirror.co.uk]]|date=October 8, 2016}}</ref> ====Wales==== On October 5, a boy filmed a clown scaring passing drivers in [[Caernarfon]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Jones, Dion|url=http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/weird-news/terrified-boy-films-creepy-clown-8988638|title=Terrified boy films creepy clown spooking drivers near children’s play centre in quiet Welsh town|publisher=[[Mirror.co.uk]]|date=October 6, 2016}}</ref> On October 8, two teenage boys were chased by a clown at night near Cardiff. {{citation needed|date=October 2016}} ====Northern Ireland==== October 6, clowns have been spotted in the capital of Northern Ireland, [[Belfast]]. While there are also reports about a school in [[Coleraine]] closed its doors for a short amount of time because of fears that people dressed as clowns were on their way to the school.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-37591036 |title='Killer clown' warning as craze hits Northern Ireland |publisher=BBC |date=7 October 2016}}</ref> ===Australia=== On October 7, several reports of clown sightings were made in [[Campbelltown, New South Wales]]. Four images of clown sightings in the city were uploaded onto the internet, making Trump get mad, and one showed a clown being knocked to the ground. In [[Narellan]], a clown was pictured sitting on a roadside electrical box.<ref>{{cite web|author=Duggan, Adam|url=http://www.9news.com.au/national/2016/10/07/14/59/menacing-clown-sightings-reported-in-australia|title=Menacing clown sightings reported in Australia|publisher=''[[9 News]]''|date=October 7, 2016}}</ref> Since October 7, there have been multiple clown sightings across major Australian cities, which include [[Sydney]], [[Melbourne]], [[Brisbane]], [[Adelaide]] and [[Perth]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/clown-purge-craze-scary-clown-craze-spreads-to-australia-police-warn-its-no-joke/news-story/2adce242cf33471de5d1500acc87935a|title=Clown ‘purge’ craze: Scary clown craze spreads to Australia, police warn it’s no joke|author=|date=October 7, 2016|work=dailytelegraph.com.au}}</ref> At around 9.30pm on October 8, two 12-year old girls were with one of their fathers buying ice-cream until suddenly were attacked by a creepy clown in Adelaide's CBD (Central Business District), near the intersection of Pultney Street and Rundle Street. While attacking the girls, the clown tried to steal one of the girl's phone, leaving her "traumatised and shaking". <ref>http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/creepy-clown-terrorises-two-12yearold-girls-in-adelaides-cbd/news-story/54185eba7682d55a5259a9f10241c88d</ref> ===New Zealand=== A woman's three sons were playing basketball at Discovery School in [[Porirua]], and one of the sons was approached by a clown. The mother called the police. A police spokesperson urged for the community to be calm.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/porirua/85031320/Police-urge-calm-as-Porirua-clown-sighting-spreads-panic|title=Police urge calm as Porirua clown sighting spreads panic|publisher=''[[The Dominion Post (Wellington)|Dominion Post]]''|date=October 5, 2016}}</ref> A woman was attacked by two clowns in [[Hamilton, New Zealand|Hamilton]].<ref>[http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/crime/85115578/clown-attackers-assault-woman-walking-home-in-hamilton 'Clown' attackers assault woman walking home in Hamilton]</ref> ===Mexico=== On October 5, residents of [[Monterrey]], [[Nuevo León]] made warnings on Facebook that thieves dressing as clowns were present in the area. The Facebook group's alert said that the clowns assaulted passersby, who were walking home.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hoyestado.com/2016/10/alertan-sobre-payasos-delincuentes-en-monterrey/|title=Alertan sobre "payasos" delincuentes en Monterrey|trans_title=Warn of "clowns" criminals in Monterrey|publisher=''[[Hoy (U.S. newspaper)|Hoy]]''|date=October 5, 2016|language=Spanish}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.unimexicali.com/noticias/mexico/440712/alertan-por-payasos-asaltantes-en-monterrey.html|title=Warn of 'clowns assailants' in Monterrey|publisher=''Agencies''|date=October 5, 2016|accessdate=October 6, 2016|language=Spanish}}</ref> On the early morning of October 7, several news sources reported that two clowns were found dead in [[Ecatepec]], a suburb of [[Mexico City]], possibly due to being beaten to death by a group of people after the clowns were scaring people.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.posta.com.mx/edomex/matan-dos-payasos-que-asustaban-mujeres-y-ninos-en-ecatepec|title=Clowns kill two frightened women and children in Ecatepec|publisher=''Posta''|date=October 7, 2016}}</ref> ===The Internet=== This phenomenon has spilled over into social media websites. Threats of violence against students, naming particular schools has resulted in large numbers of students not attending class as well as the lockdown, lockout, or cancellation of classes at schools around the country. In one example, threats of violence and the same image of a clown referred to a minimum of 24 schools in Arizona's Valley's Phoenix Union and Glendale school districts.<ref name="Thousands of students skip class">{{cite news|url=http://abc13.com/news/thousands-of-students-skip-class-after-clown-threats/1529983/ |title=Thousands of students skip class after clown threats |date=28 September 2016 |publisher=ABC News}}</ref> On Monday, September 26, around 1,500 of [[Maryvale High School (Phoenix, Arizona)|Marydale High School]]'s students (nearly half of all students) did not attend after the first threats appeared on the Internet.<ref name="Thousands of students skip class" /> On October 1, schools in [[Hamburg]], [[Pennsylvania]] were locked down because of a clown threat on Facebook and Twitter by a group with the name "Aint Clownin Around". The message read "We will be at all High schools this friday to either {{sic|kidnapp}} students or kill teachers going to they cars ...#WeNotClowninAround."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.readingeagle.com/news/article/hamburg-schools-were-on-lockdown-due-to-clown-threat |title=Hamburg schools were on lockdown due to clown threat |author=Michael Yoder|date=1 October 2016|work=Reading Eagle}}</ref> In Philadelphia,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://6abc.com/news/phila-schools-police-taking-scary-clown-threats-seriously/1536124/ |title=PHILADELPHIA POLICE: GIRL,13, MADE 'CLOWN THREATS' TOWARD SCHOOLS |date=3 October 2016 |publisher=6 ABC|author=Jeannette Reyes}}</ref> threats against students and schools have been posted at social media sites prompting the FBI and a terrorism task force to help police investigate. The exact nature of these threats has not been made public.{{citation needed|date=October 2016}} Such threats on social media have also affected two grade schools in Alabama,<ref name="legalinsurrection.com">{{cite web|url=http://legalinsurrection.com/2016/09/police-called-to-auburn-university-over-clown-sightings/ |title=Police Called to Auburn University Over Clown Sightings|author=Aleister|publisher=Legalinsurrection.com |date= September 21, 2016 |accessdate=2016-10-04}}</ref> [[Auburn University]],<ref name="legalinsurrection.com"/> Fairborn High School, Columbus, Ohio,<ref>{{cite web|author=|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/seven-now-arrested-over-clown-threats-in-ohio/ |title=More arrests in Ohio amid growing rash of clown-related threats |publisher=CBS News |date= October 2, 2016|accessdate=2016-10-04}}</ref> some Las Vegas area schools,<ref>{{cite web|author=|url=http://lasvegas.cbslocal.com/2016/10/01/rumored-clown-threats-rile-some-las-vegas-students/ |title=Rumored Clown Threats Rile Some Las Vegas Students &#124; KXNT 840 AM |publisher=CBS Las Vegas |date= |accessdate=2016-10-04}}</ref> and many more around the country. == Possible explanations == Explanations include that some clown sightings are promotional stunts for the upcoming reboot of the film ''[[It (2017 film)|It]]'', based on [[It (novel)|Stephen King's novel]] of the same name, or [[Rob Zombie]]'s upcoming horror film ''[[31 (film)|31]]'', which also features characters dressed in clown costumes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/09/07/clown-sightings-have-spread-to-north-carolina-now-police-are-concerned-about-creepy-copycats/|title=Clown sightings have spread to North Carolina. Now police are concerned about creepy copycats.|author=Ben Guarino|date= September 7, 2016|work=washingtonpost.com|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> Author and folklorist [[Benjamin Radford]], who wrote the non-fiction book ''Bad Clowns'', said that the craze could be an example of the "[[snowball effect]]", where rumor and legitimate concerns mix with the human penchant for a good story.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/10/05/health/creepy-clowns-rumors-trnd/index.html|title=What's with all the clowns everywhere? 6 legit possibilities|author=AJ Willingham|date=5 October 2016|work=cnn.com|accessdate=6 October 2016}}</ref> == See also == * [[Coulrophobia]], fear of clowns * [[Mass hysteria]] == References == {{Reflist|30em}} [[Category:2016 in the United States]] [[Category:Clowns]] [[Category:Postmodernism]] [[Category:2016-related lists]] [[Category:Mass hysteria]] [[Category:2010s fads and trends]] [[Category:Mass hysteria in the United States]]'