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Police Warn About Dangerous Abandoned Howell Theater

Source: Jersey Shore Online · Jul 29, 2026, 8:34 AM

AI-assisted briefing from the publisher’s public headline and excerpt — not original reporting. How we write briefings

Police Warn About Dangerous Abandoned Howell Theater news image

Township police in Howell are cautioning residents to avoid the long-vacant Xscape Movie Theatre, which has sat empty for five years and has become a magnet for criminal activity.

According to authorities, the abandoned property has experienced repeated incidents of break-ins, vandalism, and trespassing.

Police are urging the public to stay away from the site due to safety concerns associated with the deteriorating structure and ongoing criminal mischief at the location.

Key points

  • Xscape Movie Theatre in Howell has been vacant for five years
  • The abandoned property has experienced numerous break-ins and vandalism incidents
  • Police are warning residents to avoid the site due to safety hazards
  • Trespassing and unauthorized entry have been frequent problems at the location

FAQ

Why is Howell police warning people about the theater?
The abandoned Xscape Movie Theatre has become a target for break-ins, vandalism, and trespassing. Police cite safety concerns related to the deteriorating building and ongoing criminal activity at the site, prompting them to warn the public to stay away.
How long has the theater been closed?
The Xscape Movie Theatre has been vacant for the past five years, according to Howell Township police.
What types of incidents have occurred at the property?
Police report the property has experienced criminal mischief, unauthorized entry, break-ins, and trespassing incidents since it closed five years ago.

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