New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport came to a standstill Sunday night after at least two people reported hearing gunshots. Flights were grounded and terminals were evacuated until security could find the source.
Thankfully, it turned out to be a false alarm.
Statement regarding situation at John F. Kennedy International Airport. #JFK #PAPD @PANYNJ @NY_NJairports pic.twitter.com/eOBR0UnzVY
— Port Authority NY&NJ (@PANYNJ) August 15, 2016
What concerned fliers took to be gunfire may have just been crowds clapping and cheering on the Olympic athletes in nearby restaurants, an official told NBC News.
While most bystanders normally wouldn't think twice about harmless cheering, it's not at all surprising in the current environment that someone thought it was something more sinister. With all of the terrorist attacks just this past year, from Paris to Orlando, travelers can be forgiven for being a bit nervy during their trips.