MacDill Air Force Base reopens after shelter in place issued for security threat

Increased security at MacDill Air Force Base

Tighter security has ramped up at MacDill Air Force Base after a suspicious package investigation this week. FOX 13's Matthew McClellan shares the latest.

TAMPA - MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa has reopened after issuing a shelter in place warning for a threat that was made to the base, according to officials.

It is not yet clear what the threat was or how serious it was, but MacDill officials released this statement on Facebook.

"We take all threats seriously and are taking appropriate measures to prioritize the safety and security of our installation. As a matter of policy, we will not release specifics on what security measures have been implemented."

MacDill officials say that the threat has been cleared and normal FPCON Charlie operations have resumed.

The backstory:

The base was already under heightened security after officials found a suspicious package Monday morning near the Dale Mabry Gate visitor center.

Base officials say someone reported the package around 11:20 a.m. First responders quickly blocked off the area and redirected traffic to the Bayshore Gate.

That disruption lasted several hours. Authorities cleared the scene just before 5 p.m. and reopened normal operations.

What we don't know:

The FBI is still investigating.

Officials haven’t said what was inside the package or whether it posed a real threat.

FPCON Charlie is one of five military threat levels, just below the highest level, Delta.

At this level, security tightens across the base:

• More ID checks
• Fewer open gates
• More security forces on site
• People heading onto the base should expect delays and longer lines.

What they're saying:

MacDill leaders are urging everyone on base to stay alert. "All personnel should remain vigilant, follow the direction of security forces, and report any suspicious activity immediately," the base said.

MacDill Air Force Base plays a major role in U.S. military operations.

It’s home to U.S. Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command — making any shift in security posture especially important.

READ: Major Cody Khork to return home to Polk County Wednesday, community prepares to honor fallen soldier

What's next:

Base officials say conditions could change as the investigation continues.

They plan to share updates as soon as new information becomes available.