KMBC TV News
The FBI is investigating an anthrax scare at the Kansas City Internal Revenue Service Building, KMBC reported.
The incident happened just before 11 p.m. Sunday night.
According to the FBI, two employees working in the mail room came into contact with two envelopes that contained a white powder. A handwritten note was found with the envelopes that had the word “anthrax” on it, sources said.
The Fire Department’s hazmat team was called. Nineteen people who had been in the area were decontaminated, including four firefighters. The two employees who found the envelopes were taken to an area hospital.
The FBI said initial tests indicated that the white powder was not hazardous. However, samples have been sent to a state testing lab. FBI spokesman Jeff Lanza said it would take at least 24 hours before officials could determine if the substance is anthrax.
“Anthrax is difficult to make. It would be unusual if someone could actually get anthrax and send it in the mail,” Lanza said.
As a precaution, the people who were near the substance will begin a round of antibiotics.
The IRS said the mail room has been sealed off while the investigation continues.