Suspicious Package at Military Base Leads to Illnesses
A number of individuals fell ill and were transported to the hospital following the delivery of a suspicious package containing a white powder to a military base in Maryland.
Officials reported that Joint Base Andrews, located just outside Washington, D.C., was evacuated after the package was opened shortly after 1 p.m. on Thursday. This facility is home to the Air National Guard Readiness Center.
“As a precautionary measure, we evacuated the building and the connected structure, while establishing a secure area around the location,” stated base officials.
Emergency responders were quickly sent to address the situation, and several individuals were taken to Malcolm Grove Medical Center on base. At this point, their conditions remained unclear.
“First responders evaluated the scene, found no immediate danger, and then handed it over to the Office of Special Investigations,” according to a base statement. “An investigation is in progress.”
Initial HAZMAT tests showed no harmful substances, yet efforts to determine the nature of the white powder continue, according to sources familiar with the incident. The HAZMAT team departed the site Thursday evening.
The location where the package was discovered is still closed off as investigations proceed.
Authorities are also examining political propaganda that was reportedly included with the package, as per individuals close to the matter. Reports indicated at least seven people are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Air National Guard Readiness Center acts as a link between the National Guard Bureau and various state and territorial Air National Guard units. Joint Base Andrews is notable for its use by high-profile officials, including the president, vice president, and cabinet members for official travel. Notably, President Donald Trump was at the base on Wednesday.
