An envelope containing an unknown substance was received, today,
aboard Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall. Personnel in the affected building took immediate preventative measures by evacuating the building.— U.S. Marines (@USMC) February 27, 2018
Base officials are coordinating with local HAZMAT teams and @FBI. Several
Marines are receiving medical care as a result of this incident. No additional details are available at this time as the investigation is ongoing.— U.S. Marines (@USMC) February 27, 2018
ARLINGTON — Eleven people fell ill after a suspicious letter was opened in an administrative building at Joint Base Fort Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, Virginia, on Tuesday, according to the Arlington County Fire Department.
Of the 11 individuals who felt ill, three were transported to a local hospital and are in a stable condition, a spokesperson for the department said.
The spokeperson said the incident response is being scaled back, however, the investigation remains ongoing.
A corporal, gunnery sergeant and a colonel all exhibited symptoms of a burning sensation on their hands and face, according to Specialist Nicholas Hodges who spoke to CNN from the base.
One individual had a nose bleed.
It is unclear at this time whether the letter was opened and who exactly handled it.
The incident occurred in the 1 p.m. hour in building 29, known as Henderson Hall, where Marines and civilians work.
A spokesperson for Arlington Fire Department told CNN they are assisting in the matter.
This story is breaking and will be updated.
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