Several individuals reportedly became ill after a suspicious package containing an unknown white powder was delivered to Joint Base Andrews, a US military facility near Washington, Maryland.
The package was opened by a person inside one of the buildings on the base, which also houses the Air National Guard Readiness Center. Following this, several people experienced symptoms and were transported to the Malcolm Grove Medical Center located on the base.
“As a precaution, the building and connecting building (at the base) were evacuated, and a cordon was established around the area,” said a statement from Joint Base Andrews, as cited by CNN.
First responders at Joint Base Andrews were dispatched to the scene. After confirming no immediate threats, they handed over the site to the Office of Special Investigations for further inquiry.
“Joint Base Andrews first responders were dispatched to the scene, determined there were no immediate threats, and have turned the scene over to the Office of Special Investigations. An investigation is currently ongoing,” CNN reported.
An investigation continues to determine the nature of the powder and circumstances around the incident.
Summary: A suspicious package containing unknown white powder caused illness among several personnel at Joint Base Andrews, prompting evacuation and an ongoing investigation by military authorities.