Suspicious Package Containing White Powder Sickens Seven at Joint Base Andrews

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. — November 7, 2025

Seven military personnel fell ill Thursday afternoon after opening a suspicious envelope filled with an unidentified white powder and political propaganda at the Air National Guard Readiness Center, prompting a swift evacuation and hazmat response at the high-security base just outside Washington, D.C.

The incident unfolded around 1 p.m. in a building that serves as a key liaison hub between the National Guard Bureau and Air National Guard units across the U.S. territories. Base officials said an individual opened the package, leading multiple people to report symptoms including headaches.

All seven were quickly transported to the on-base Malcolm Grow Medical Center, evaluated, treated, and released in stable condition later that day—no overnight hospitalizations were required.

"As a precaution, the building and a connecting structure were evacuated, and a cordon was established around the area," a Joint Base Andrews spokesperson said in a statement. "First responders were dispatched, determined there were no immediate threats, and normal operations have resumed."

A hazmat team conducted initial field tests on the powder, which came back negative for hazardous substances, though further lab analysis is underway.

The room where the envelope was opened remains sealed, and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations has taken over the probe. Sources familiar with the matter told CNN that investigators are also examining accompanying "political propaganda" inside the package, with some reports describing anti-Trump messaging.

Joint Base Andrews, home to Air Force One and a frequent transit point for President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and cabinet officials, saw no disruption to airfield operations. Trump had departed the base aboard the presidential aircraft just one day prior.

The scare echoes past anthrax-by-mail attacks but comes amid heightened political tensions following the 2024 election. Authorities have not publicly identified a motive or sender, and the investigation continues.