A federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in New York City was abruptly evacuated on Wednesday after employees reported finding a suspicious white powder, triggering a major emergency response.
Hazmat teams rushed to the scene at 26 Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan following the alarming discovery. Authorities cordoned off the area as specialists in protective gear assessed the unknown substance.
Emergency Response in Lower Manhattan
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as workers were quickly ushered out of the building while emergency vehicles flooded the streets. "We saw people running out looking scared," said a nearby office worker. "Then the hazmat suits showed up and we knew it was serious."
Building Security Protocols Activated
The incident activated the building's full security protocols, with multiple agencies including the NYPD and FDNY responding to the potential threat. While initial tests were conducted on site, samples were sent to laboratories for definitive analysis.
An ICE spokesperson confirmed the evacuation but declined to speculate about the powder's origin or composition. "The safety of our employees and the public is our top priority," the statement read.
Recent Security Concerns
This scare comes amid heightened security awareness at government buildings nationwide. While most such incidents prove to be false alarms, authorities treat all potential threats with utmost seriousness following historical incidents of dangerous substance exposures.
As of Wednesday evening, officials had not released additional details about the substance or whether any employees required medical attention. The investigation remains ongoing.
