The Pentagon is on lockdown amid an “air quality issue” as a hazmat team rushes to the defense facility.
The building’s systems detected an “air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance,” Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told The Independent on Tuesday morning.
“The Department is executing standard protection protocols, including a shelter-in-place order for the affected area. Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants,” he added.
The Arlington County Fire Department also confirmed its hazmat team is responding to an ongoing “hazardous materials incident” at the Pentagon. The department’s units are assisting the Pentagon Force Protection Agency’s hazmat team, public information officer Jamie Jill told The Independent.
Some people have also been evacuated from the facility, CNN reports. A source told the network they spotted police wearing protective gear, including gas masks.
Officials are completing “additional testing” that could take “one to two hours,” according to a message from Pentagon security officials obtained by CNN.
“You may observe response personnel from multiple agencies and precautionary measures taking place in the center courtyard. Please do not interpret these activities,” the message said.
The Pentagon, located near the Potomac River in the Washington, D.C., area, serves as the Defense Department’s headquarters and houses about 27,000 employees. That includes 24,000 military personnel and civilians, along with 3,000 non-defense support workers.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
