( CNN ) -- Do n't bother to send in the clowns . A rash of `` creepy clown '' sightings in California has left some residents unnerved . It all appears to have started with the `` Wasco Clown . '' According to KernGoldenEmpire.com , the clown 's appearances -- and subsequent social media postings -- in the San Joaquin Valley city are part of a photography project launched by a husband and wife team who wish to remain anonymous . But copycat clowns have arrived on the scene , including one who was reportedly armed . The Bakersfield Californian said police received a call about someone in a clown suit brandishing a weapon . `` We 've had multiple ( sightings ) of these clown sightings all over town , '' Bakersfield police Lt. Jason Matson told the publication . `` He was gone by the time we arrived . '' The Los Angeles Times said Bakersfield police arrested a teen in another incident in which he allegedly dressed as a clown and pursued other teens , scaring them . Coulrophobia is the formal term for the fear of clowns .
Sightings of `` the Wasco Clown '' are reportedly part of a project . Bakersfield police say they 've had multiple clown sightings . A teen was arrested for dressing as a clown and chasing others .