A security alert unfolded at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Thursday after a suspicious package containing a mysterious white powder was opened, leading to seven people being hospitalised as a precaution.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
The incident occurred when an individual opened the concerning package during the afternoon hours at the base, which serves as the home for the US president's iconic Air Force One aircraft. Base authorities immediately sprang into action, implementing emergency protocols.
Joint Base Andrews first responders established a security cordon and evacuated both the affected building and an adjacent connecting structure as safety measures. The base command confirmed in an official statement that their emergency teams were quickly dispatched to assess the situation.
Medical Precautions and Investigation
All seven individuals who reported feeling unwell after exposure to the substance were transported to Malcolm Grove Medical Center located within the military installation. Fortunately, all affected personnel have since been released from hospital care, though details about their specific symptoms or the nature of the white powder remain unclear.
Initial field testing conducted by hazardous materials specialists did not detect any harmful substances, providing some reassurance to base personnel. However, authorities emphasised that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Return to Normal Operations
By early evening, military officials confirmed that the immediate threat had been cleared and normal operations had resumed across the base. The US Air Force's Office of Special Investigations has now taken charge of the case to determine the origin and intent behind the suspicious delivery.
The specific room where the envelope was opened remains closed off as part of the continuing investigation. This area is situated within the building housing the Air National Guard Readiness Center, a crucial operational facility at the Maryland military installation.
While the incident caused temporary disruption and concern, base authorities have reassured the public that there is no continuing threat to base personnel or operations following their thorough response and assessment procedures.
