WASHINGTON D.C (YBH) – A routine Coast Guard training exercise on the Potomac River this morning fueled confusion and panic. A report filed by CNN seems to have been the cause.
CNN reported that shots had been fired and that the “Coast Guard tried to prevent boat from entering Potomac River secure zone.” President Obama had left the Pentagon around the time of the incident.
CNN This Morning.
Apparently, the confusion began when a mock radio signal was sent from Coast Guard command to “fire ten shots.” No shots were actually fired and the Coast Guard had no reports of an unlawful vessel on the Potomac.
The Coast Guard claimed that the training exercise had nothing to do with today’s 9/11 anniversary, and is part of the Coast Guard’s daily routine to keep the capital safe. Both CNN and The Drudge Report ran the story, which led to the swift response and clarification from the Coast Guard. Departures from Reagan National Airport were briefly halted during the confusion.
