Emergency services were deployed to a federal building in New York City following reports of a suspicious white powder discovered on the premises. The incident, which occurred at the Jacob K. Javits Federal Building in Lower Manhattan, prompted a swift response from hazardous materials teams and law enforcement.
Details of the Incident
According to officials, the substance was found in a public area of the building, leading to immediate evacuation protocols. Firefighters and specialised hazmat units arrived on the scene to assess the situation and secure the area.
Authorities' Response
New York Police Department (NYPD) spokesperson confirmed that the substance was being tested to determine its composition. "We are treating this as a potential threat until proven otherwise," the spokesperson stated.
Initial reports suggest no injuries have been reported, but several individuals were evaluated as a precaution. The building remained closed for several hours while investigations continued.
Public Safety Measures
Local authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. "Safety is our top priority," a fire department representative emphasised during a press briefing.
The incident comes amid heightened security alerts in major cities across the US. While no direct link to terrorism has been established, officials are taking no chances.
