PHOENIX — The Executive Tower at the Arizona State Capitol was evacuated Thursday after a targeted threat.
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Thursday afternoon, the Arizona Department of State received an envelope with white powder that was opened by staff.
Officials say the office called law enforcement and hazmat response, isolated the material and people who were exposed, evacuated all other employees and shut off floor access.
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Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes issued the following statement:
This is a sobering moment that highlights the reality of election administration in this country today. I am thankful for my staff that acted quickly and are taking the lead from law-enforcement and hazmat experts on a response to ensure the safety of my entire staff and our customers.
We will not be scared out of doing our jobs on behalf of the voters of Arizona. As the election closes in, we know that threats will continue and we are on high alert to protect everyone on our team that is working overtime to serve Arizona
Police say there are no reported injuries at this time.
The FBI says they’ve been investigating similar threats to various addresses nationwide, including Secretary of State offices and their related election officials.
Here’s their full statement:
The FBI and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are investigating a series of suspicious mailings sent to various addresses nationwide, including Secretary of State offices and their related election offices. Some of the letters contained an unknown substance and we are working closely with our law enforcement partners to respond to each incident. We are also working with our partners to identify the individual or individuals responsible for the letters. This FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to safeguard the public and secure elections for American citizens.
This remains an active investigation.
AZDPS, including its Hazardous Materials Response Team, and the FBI are responding to the incident.
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