Clay County (trfnews.i234.me) – Moorhead Police are defending their response to a reported gunshot incident that turned out to be a false alarm. The hours-long investigation on 20th Street brought in multiple agencies, including SWAT and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.
Moorhead Police Chief Chris Helmick said the department followed proper protocol. The situation began when a veteran officer was conducting a routine follow-up at an apartment complex. Helmick said the officer did not expect violence or danger when he approached the apartment door.
According to the chief, the officer heard what sounded like gunfire. The officer immediately called for backup. Helmick emphasized that the officer is a longtime firearms instructor and is familiar with the sound of gunshots.
The report triggered a large emergency response. Nearby residents were issued a shelter-in-place alert as officers searched the area for any threat. Police canvassed the building and spoke with residents, who pointed them toward a possible source of the noise.
The investigation later determined the sound came from a malfunctioning HVAC system. Residents told officers that the system occasionally makes a loud noise that resembles a gunshot.
Chief Helmick said the department would handle a similar situation the same way. He stressed that officers must act with caution during potential gunfire reports, even when the threat is not confirmed. Helmick said it is “better to be safe than sorry,” noting that officers cannot dismiss possible gunfire without investigating.
He added that unexpected noises often trigger similar reports, especially around holidays such as the Fourth of July. The chief said police must remain prepared for unexpected situations and prioritize community safety.
Helmick did note one area for improvement. The department plans to work on issuing more specific locations when sending shelter-in-place alerts to reduce confusion.
Moorhead Police encourage anyone who hears a suspicious sound to call 911 and allow officers to investigate.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
