Update: Gunshot report in south Moorhead was caused by faulty HVAC system

MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) – The Moorhead Police Department released more information late Thursday afternoon about an incident that led to a large police presence and a shelter-in-place alert.

The department’s investigation revealed that the sound which caused the officer to call for backup was actually a mechanical malfunction involving a nearby HVAC system, which produced a loud noise consistent with what the officer initially believed to be a gunshot.

There is no evidence to support that a gunshot was fired.

Police Chief Chris Helmick said, in part, “In this case, the officer responded appropriately based on what was heard, and our team worked quickly to investigate and ensure there was no threat to the public. ”

Several hours earlier, police issued a shelter-in-place notification and several officers were called to the scene in the area of 20th St. & 18th Ave.