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Saranac Lake Police Investigating Suspected Swatting Incident
June 10, 2026
Saranac Lake Police Investigating Suspected Swatting Incident
Thank you to the New York State Police, Village of Saranac Lake Police Department, Saranac Lake Fire Department, and all emergency responders for their swift and professional response today.
While the reported incident was determined to be unfounded, these situations are taken seriously and require a significant public safety response.
We appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents, businesses, and visitors as emergency personnel worked to ensure public safety.
Please refer to the Saranac Lake Police Department for official information regarding the ongoing investigation.
Release by: Chief of Police Darin M. Perrotte
The Saranac Lake Police Department is investigating a suspected swatting incident that prompted a significant emergency response in the downtown area earlier today (June 10, 2026).
At approximately 12:48pm, the Saranac Lake Police Department received a report from a male caller claiming that a masked man armed with a firearm had entered the Village Mercantile, located at 97 Main Street. The caller further reported that the individual had started a fire inside the building and that people were fleeing from the scene. Saranac Lake Fire Department was dispatched to that address.
Police officers and firefighters responded immediately and conducted a thorough assessment of the area. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found no evidence of a fire, no armed subject, and no indication that any criminal activity had occurred at the location. The area was searched and subsequently cleared.
The New York State Police assisted in the response and investigation.
While emergency personnel were on scene, the caller contacted authorities several additional times and made comments regarding the movements and actions of responding police officers and fire personnel. Information developed during the investigation indicates the caller may have been monitoring publicly accessible live camera footage from the Hotel Saranac area while making the false reports.
Preliminary investigative findings suggest this incident may have originated from a foreign-based source. Investigators are continuing to work with partner agencies to identify the individual responsible.
Swatting incidents are deliberate false reports designed to trigger a large-scale emergency response. These calls place first responders and members of the public at unnecessary risk, divert critical resources away from legitimate emergencies, and may result in criminal prosecution when those responsible are identified.
“We are grateful for the rapid and professional response of our officers, firefighters, and our partners at the New York State Police,” said Saranac Lake Police Chief Darin Perrotte. “False emergency reports are taken very seriously. Incidents like this consume valuable public safety resources and have the potential to create dangerous situations for both responders and community members.”
At no time was there an active threat to the public associated with this incident. The safety concerns at the location were quickly investigated and determined to be unfounded. Saranac Lake Police communicated with Saranac Lake Schools as the incident unfolded to ensure safety of students and staff.
This remains an active investigation. Updates will be provided as confirmed facts become available. Anyone with information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the Saranac Lake Police Department at (518) 891-4422 or on the department’s website www.saranaclakepolice.org.
The Saranac Lake Police Department remains committed to transparency, public safety, and working with our law enforcement partners to hold those responsible for criminal acts accountable.
For additional information, please contact:
Chief Darin Perrotte
Saranac Lake Police Department
(518) 891-4422