Suspicious package sent to Fulton County DA's office at courthouse
Fulton County courthouse suspicious substance
First responders rushed to the Fulton County courthouse in downtown Atlanta after a report of a suspicious substance in an envelope.
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - A suspicious white powder discovered at the Fulton County courthouse on Tuesday afternoon prompted a large emergency response and temporarily evacuated portions of the building.
Officials later confirmed the substance was not hazardous.
The Fulton County Courthouse is located on Pryor Street SW in downtown Atlanta.
What we know:
Fire crews were called to the courthouse just before 2 p.m. after employees in the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office on the third floor reported finding a powdery substance while opening mail. Several workers who came in contact with the substance began experiencing headaches, prompting a call to 911 and the dispatch of multiple fire trucks, ambulances, and a hazmat team.
"Just with it being a powder substance and the people who opened it were complaining of initial signs and symptoms, so not knowing what it was, we go ahead and treat it as if it is something," said Atlanta Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Ronald Slatton.
Firefighters quickly secured the building as hazmat specialists entered to examine the powder. Officials say testing took about 30 minutes.
The substance was later identified as starch or salt, and deemed non-toxic. Despite the lack of danger, four employees were transported to Grady Memorial Hospital for further evaluation and observation. The fire department says they are all conscious and alert.
What they're saying:
A spokesperson for DA Fani Willis released a statement that reads:
"A package was delivered to the office of Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis today. When opened, an unknown substance was found inside. Four employees have been treated on the scene for symptoms.
"The District Attorney and her staff greatly appreciate the quick and effective response by Atlanta and Fulton County agencies to the scene to protect our colleagues and the public."
What we don't know:
A full hazmat response has been activated by the fire department and Homeland Security.
This is an active investigation.
No word on whom the package was addressed to or who may have sent it.