CNN offices in New York evacuated after bomb threat

CNN offices in New York have again been evacuated because of a phoned-in bomb threat, though the police have issued an all-clear message.

Staff in offices and studios fled the 24-hour news network’s building after several fire alarms went off about 10.30pm.

Anchor Don Lemon tweeted that staff were evacuated in the middle of his live show, with the station now showing taped programming.

“The NYPD has now given us the all clear, and employees have been permitted to return to the building. The building is secure and safe for everyone to return in the morning. We appreciate the swift action by the local authorities, and the patience and professionalism of all the employees who were impacted” CNN Worldwide president Jeff Zucker said in an internal memo to staff.

CNN was also evacuated in October after a package with an explosive device, addressed to former CIA Director John Brennan, was discovered. The package was among more than a dozen improvised explosive devices sent to prominent Democratic politicians and donors around the country in October.

None of the devices detonated, and no one was injured. Suspect Cesar Sayoc, 56, was charged with five federal crimes and is currently in custody waiting for trail. If convicted, he could receive up to 48 years in prison.