Envelopes filled with white powder mailed to multiple county election offices across Washington
FOX 13 can confirm there are hazmat investigations in King, Pierce, Skagit and Spokane counties.
King County Elections Office in Renton, Washington. (FOX 13 Seattle)
King County
FOX 13 reached out to the King County election headquarters, who reported receiving an envelope containing white powder.
The exact percentage of fentanyl is unknown. The RPD is now investigating the incident with the FBI.
The office says the envelope in question was opened with regular mail. It was not in a ballot or arrive with other ballots.
The election office is anticipating their ballot counting to be delayed.
At around 10:20 a.m., crews responded to a hazmat situation at Spokane County Elections.
The Spokane Police Department tested the substance and discovered traces of fentanyl. They also tested the powder for other chemical/ biological agents, explosive compounds and controlled substances; all of which returned negative.
Vicky Dalton, Spokane County Auditor, says staff were sent home for the day before learning the building would be cleared by the Spokane Police and Fire departments. Due to this, election results will be released at a later date.
Just after 11 a.m., the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD) sent out an alert saying crews were investigating a possible hazardous substance found at the voter registration building in the 2500 block of S 35th St.
The Skagit County election office also received an envelope with white powder on Wednesday. This was also not mailed in with other ballots.
The building was evacuated, and the sheriff’s department and hazmat crew are investigating the scene.
The Washington Secretary of State’s office is aware of the situations happening in all four counties and says these are the only locations to receive envelopes filled with the powder-like substance. A statement regarding the importance of safe elections is expected to be released later in the day.
