Police in a Chicago suburb are investigating a bomb threat targeting the home of Louis Prevost, Pope Leo's brother, NBC News Chicago reported.
According to the New Lenox Police Department, officers responded around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday after receiving a report of a bomb threat at the home. A security perimeter was established and nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.
Following a search of the home and surrounding property, with assistance from Will County Sheriff's Office K-9 units, investigators determined there were no explosives or hazardous materials.
No injuries were reported, and residents were later allowed to return.
Police said false threats are a "serious offense" that can lead to criminal charges. The incident remains under investigation, and authorities have not identified a suspect or motive.
The threat comes amid heightened attention surrounding the pope's family and a growing political feud between the Vatican and the White House.
In recent days, President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Pope Leo XIV over his comments on global conflicts, particularly the war involving Iran, calling the pontiff "weak on crime" and "terrible for foreign policy."
In a lengthy social media post earlier this week, Trump also drew attention to the pope's brother, writing that he prefers him because "Louis is all MAGA. He gets it, and Leo doesn't," while accusing the pope of aligning with the political left and interfering in policy debates.
Pope Leo, the first American-born pontiff, has defended his remarks as rooted in Catholic teaching, emphasizing calls for peace and rejecting suggestions that they were politically motivated.
Authorities have not indicated whether the threat is connected to the broader political tensions.
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