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Driver Threatens to “Blow Up” Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

animal kingdom lodge
Credit: Disney Parks

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a premier destination within the Walt Disney World Resort. Known for its African-themed architecture and savanna views, the lodge offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other hotels in the area. From their balconies, guests can enjoy the sight of more than 200 animals, including giraffes and zebras.

The lodge also features a variety of dining options. Notable restaurants like Boma – Flavors of Africa and Jiko – the Cooking Place provide unique African cuisine options, enhancing the culinary experience for visitors. Dining at Animal Kingdom Lodge is often cited as a highlight, as guests enjoy traditional dishes while surrounded by wildlife just outside their dining windows.

Samaki Wu Kupaka

Credit: Disney

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On September 29, Tadeo Miguel Angel Bessacolmenares, a 45-year-old food delivery driver from Orlando, was arrested after making a bomb threat at the security gate of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. His actions prompted a swift response from Disney security and local law enforcement.

Upon arrival at the security entrance, Bessacolmenares reportedly stated that he was there to “blow up the resort.” The guard at the gate immediately contacted Disney’s security personnel, given the severe nature of the threat.

The guard, taken aback by the statement, sought clarification. According to reports, Bessacolmenares “giggled” and reiterated that his trunk was “full of explosives.”

Woman arrested for biting sister Animal Kingdom Lodge

Credit: Disney

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The police report states:

[The security guard] said that after making these threats he [Bessacolmenares] said that he was a delivery driver and  there to deliver food. [Security guard] informed me that he told the driver he was not allowed to come on property until Disney’s senior leadership allowed it. [Security guard] stated that the driver attempted to leave until he saw that [security guard] took photos of his vehicle tag. [Security guard] said that the driver parked the vehicle and waited.

When the Orange County Police arrived, a K-9 unit was deployed to conduct a thorough sweep of Bessacolmenares’ vehicle. No explosives or weapons were found during the search

Savannah View

Credit: Disney

In addition to the K-9 unit, local law enforcement was contacted to assess the situation further. Following the incident, Bessacolmenares was banned from returning to any Disney property. Should he try to return to Disney, he will be arrested and taken back to jail.

Bessacolmenares now faces significant legal repercussions. He has been charged with a second-degree felony for making a false bomb threat. He is currently represented by the Public Defender’s Office as he navigates the legal process.

Do you think Mr. Bessacolmenares should go to jail for the “joke” he made about blowing up Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge? Let us know in the comments!

About Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

2 comments

  1. Absolutely he needs some serious ail time. What a insane and mentally ill that person is. That is not Joke, That is evil!

  2. Some are very quick to make a violent statement and then say it’s a joke or how you don’t have a sense of humor. People need to be responsible for their statements and actions.

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