People Fall Ill After Suspicious Package at Joint Base Andrews
A suspicious package containing white powder was delivered to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, leading to several people feeling unwell and requiring hospitalization, CNN reported Thursday.
Evacuation and Response
According to a statement from Joint Base Andrews, located near Washington, DC, the incident began when a person opened the package.
“As a precaution, the building and a connected facility were evacuated, and a cordon was set up around the area,” the statement said.
Several individuals were taken to the Malcolm Grove Medical Center on the base for evaluation. Their medical conditions have not yet been disclosed.
Nature of the Substance
Sources familiar with the investigation told CNN that the package contained an unknown white powder. Initial field tests conducted by the base hazmat team did not detect any hazardous materials.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities determined there was no immediate threat to personnel. The site has since been handed over to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations for further review. The cause of the exposure and the nature of the substance remain under investigation.
Background
Joint Base Andrews is widely known as the home base for Air Force One, the primary aircraft used to transport the President of the United States.
Author’s summary: Several people were hospitalized after white powder was discovered in a package at Joint Base Andrews, prompting evacuation and investigation.