White powder envelope clears Oklahoma City State Capitol after evacuation
An envelope with white powder caused an Oklahoma State Capitol evacuation in Oklahoma City before tests confirmed the substance was non-hazardous.
Emergency crews investigated a suspicious mail item in Oklahoma City on Tuesday. Troopers moved workers outside before tests confirmed the envelope held non-hazardous material.
The incident began Tuesday morning at the State Election Board Office. The envelope contained a white powdery substance, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Troopers with the OHP Capitol Patrol Division arrived quickly.
Troopers evacuated the area immediately. They coordinated with state and federal partners to manage the scene safely.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said the substance was non-hazardous. The Oklahoma State Capitol Complex resumed normal operations Wednesday morning. Troopers cleared the entire property as safe.
Oklahoma State Election Board Secretary Paul Ziriax praised the first responders.
“I am very appreciative of the quick action of state troopers, the Oklahoma City Fire Department, and the Oklahoma National Guard, and their professional response to the situation. Thankfully, no one from the State Election Board staff was harmed as a result of this incident.”
Ziriax addressed the public directly about voting operations.
“We want to assure Oklahoma voters that today’s incident does not impact our ability to conduct elections. Election officials remain committed to ensuring safe and secure elections.”
The state patrol confirmed its investigation remains open. Troopers will continue working with state and federal partners regarding the Oklahoma City incident.
The State Election Board oversees voter registration and election administration across the state. Suspicious mail discoveries at state offices prompt multi-agency reviews and hazardous material tests.
No staff injuries were reported. It is safe.
