White Powder Prompts Lockdown At Illinois State Capitol

SPRINGFIELD, IL — The Illinois State Capitol was on lockdown Thursday afternoon after a white powder was found at Gov. Bruce Rauner's office, the State Journal-Register reported. The lockdown occurred as members of the House gathered to vote on whether to override Rauner's veto on a state income tax hike and spending plan. The building was locked down but not evacuated, and the all-clear was given shortly after 3 p.m.

A hazardous materials crew reportedly checked the building, and no one was being permitted to enter or exit. The Capitol's air conditioning was also shut off during the investigation.

Springfield Fire Chief Barry Helmerichs told the Journal-Register that a woman threw a powdery substance in the governor's office, lieutenant governor’s office and the House gallery. Several outlets reported that the woman was in custody.

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White's office tweeted that the all-clear had been given just after 3 p.m., and no hazardous materials were found.

Rauner was not in the building because he was attending the funeral of Illinois State Trooper Ryan Albin, killed last week in a crash, according to media reports.

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Image via Patch file