Part of the Capitol was on lockdown today after a powder was found in a letter sent to Gov. Asa Hutchinson’s office.
According to Chris Powell, Capitol spokesperson, a letter that was directed to the Governor’s office was found to have a powder-like substance inside it. An individual in the office opened it after 2:30 p.m. today.
“There was a letter opened in the governor’s office that appeared to have a powdery substance in it, and Capitol Police responded,” he said. “We got the report around 2:35 p.m..”
The Capitol staffers were asked to stay in place while safety officials were called to the Capitol building to collect samples. The building was not evacuated, but part of the building was on lockdown.
Law enforcement officials tested the substance on site, and it was determined that it was not harmful. In addition, Powell said there was no threatening message with the substance.
Powell thanked the law enforcement agencies that responded to the call. During the afternoon, Little Rock Hazmat, Arkansas State Police, Little Rock Fire Department, Little Rock Police, F.B.I. and Capitol Police were on scene at the Capitol. “We’re thankful for the response from our law enforcement partners,” he said.
RELATED: Read more about Gov. Asa Hutchinson here
