The Pentagon in the United States (US) was placed under lockdown and partially evacuated on Thursday after a hazardous materials sensor triggered a false alarm, according to international media sources.
Earlier, several floors and corridors inside the building were locked down. Some areas were even evacuated due to a “hazardous materials incident,” according to the reports.
One source said the lockdown was still in place as of 12:30 PM according to the US time.
International media reports that, according to first responder radio traffic and a source familiar with the matter, the evacuation began after a Pentagon sensor system detected the possible presence of anthrax.
However, one source said the sensor system had malfunctioned. It resulted in a false alarm.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said systems inside the building had “detected an air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance.”
“The Department is executing standard protection protocols, including a shelter-in-place order for the affected area,” Parnell added. “Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants.”
Pentagon evacuated over ‘hazardous materials incident’
Internal guidance issued by Pentagon security officials said an “air quality issue” had been detected and further testing was required, the reports add.
“This additional testing could take one to two hours,” the message said. “Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants if necessary. You may observe response personnel from multiple agencies and precautionary measures taking place in the center courtyard. Please do not interpret these activities.”
The Arlington County Fire Department sent its hazardous materials team to assist the Pentagon Force Protection Agency, reports say.
According to the sources, floors two through five in corridors four through seven were placed under lockdown.
These areas include offices such as the Navy’s main public affairs office and the Office of the Secretary of the Army.
Another source told CNN that police officers inside the building were wearing gas masks and full chemical protective suits.
