Man protests Target's transgender bathroom policy, causes 'active shooter' scare

A man protesting Target's new bathroom policy was responsible for causing a disturbance that was initially reported as an "active shooter" at one of the chain's stores in Bradley, Illinois. 

Police responded to a call of an active shooter at the store around 1 p.m. on Monday afternoon resulting in lockdowns at nearby stores and other law enforcement agencies responding to assist. 

However, according to police, when they arrived on scene there were no indications of shots having been fired and the man, Michael Merichko, was taken into custody "without incident." Merichko caused people in the store to panic as he protested Target's inclusive bathroom policy. He was charged with disorderly conduct.

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Police also report there were no injuries and no weapons recovered at the scene, leaving it a mystery as to why the call for an active shooter was made. 

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

In April, Target announced a new policy that allows customers and employees to use whatever bathroom aligns with their gender identity. 

"Everyone deserves to feel like they belong," the company said in a statement. "We welcome transgender team members and guests to use the restroom or fitting room facility that corresponds with their gender identity."

The move resulted in a backlash from conservative groups that called for boycotts of the chain as debate over bathroom bills have made their way into the presidential campaign.

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