Pentagon’s multiple floors and corridors have been locked down, and people are being evacuated after a “hazardous materials incident” was reported on Thursday, Arlington County fire and rescue officials said.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told CNN that systems within the Pentagon “have detected an air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance.”
Parnell added that a shelter-in-place order has been issued for the affected area and the department is executing standard protection protocols.
ACFD units, including our Hazardous Materials Team, are currently operating at the Pentagon in support of PFPA’s Hazmat Team during a hazardous materials incident.
— Arlington Fire & EMS (@ArlingtonVaFD)
The CNN report, citing a source, stated that floors two through five in corridors four through seven have been locked down. It added that police officials who are in the Pentagon building appear to be wearing gas masks and chemical protective gear.
The incident is being responded by the Pentagon Force Protection Agency’s hazardous materials response team along with assistance from Arlington County Fire Department, Capt. Jamie Jill, the department’s spokesperson, said.
A social media post by Arlington Fire and EMS stated that Arlington County Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team is operating at the Pentagon “during a hazardous materials incident.”
Pentagon’s security team said in a message that “air quality issue” has been detected and additional tests are being carried out.
“This additional testing could take one to two hours. Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants if necessary,” the Pentagon’s message read, adding “You may observe response personnel from multiple agencies and precautionary measures taking place in the center courtyard. Please do not interpret these activities.”
