A hazmat response shut down part of the Whatcom County Courthouse before officials confirmed the substance was harmless. Limited operations remain.
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A suspicious package containing what was initially believed to be hazardous material led to a Whatcom County Courthouse evacuation and shutdown on Thursday.
County officials said the incident began earlier in the morning when staff received a package that raised concerns.
Out of an abundance of caution, authorities evacuated the first floor of the courthouse while first responders, including a hazardous materials unit, investigated.
“The Courthouse is reopened but operations are limited,” the county said in a statement. “Community members are encouraged to call ahead to confirm whether a department or Court is open prior to visiting.”
Officials emphasized there was no danger to the public during the response.
Substance identified as flour
By mid-afternoon, officials confirmed the material was not dangerous.
In an update issued at 3:13 p.m., Whatcom County Government said testing determined the substance was flour.
The courthouse has since reopened. However, operations remain limited, and some staff were sent home following the incident.
Limited operations remain in place
County officials are asking community members to call ahead before visiting the courthouse to confirm whether specific departments or court services are open.
Authorities have not released additional details about the origin of the package.
Bellingham is about a 90-minute drive north of Seattle, Washington on I-5.
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