The Pentagon is on lockdown amid an “air quality issue” as a hazmat team rushes to the defense facility.
The building’s systems detected an “air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance,” Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell told The Independent on Tuesday morning.
“The Department is executing standard protection protocols, including a shelter-in-place order for the affected area. Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants,” he added.
The Arlington County Fire Department also confirmed its hazmat team is responding to an ongoing “hazardous materials incident” at the Pentagon.
Some people have also been evacuated from the facility, CNN reports. A source told the network they spotted police wearing protective gear, including gas masks.
The Pentagon, located in the Washington, D.C., area, serves as the Defense Department’s headquarters. Roughly 23,000 government employees work inside the building, which sits near the Potomac River.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
