The Pentagon was placed under lockdown and partially evacuated on Thursday afternoon following a false alarm about a hazardous materials incident, occurring just hours before the World Cup is set to kick off in the United States.
Incident Details
A hazmat team was deployed to the Pentagon after reports of an unknown substance prompted a shelter-in-place order for affected areas. According to CNN, the substance turned out to be a false alarm. Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that building systems 'detected an air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance.'
The Arlington Fire and EMS Department confirmed on social media that their Hazardous Materials Team was assisting the Pentagon Force Protection Agency's Hazmat Team during the incident.
World Cup Context
The lockdown occurred just hours before the World Cup begins, with matches including Canada vs. Bosnia and Mexico vs. South Africa scheduled for 8 pm UK time. The US has heightened security in host cities as it prepares to welcome over three million visitors. The FBI has established an operations center with police representatives from 46 of the 48 participating countries.
The fan zone on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall, located just four miles from the Pentagon, opened earlier in the day. The US Capitol will host live viewings, exhibits, and food at the Fan Zone, attracting thousands of attendees.
