Pentagon Evacuated After Hazardous Substance Scare

The US Department of Defense activated security measures on Thursday after detecting an air quality problem in the Pentagon. Authorities are investigating the possible presence of hazardous substances.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said security systems had detected an unusual situation requiring precautionary action until the severity of the problem could be determined. Standard protective protocols were put in place in the affected areas and response teams were deployed.

Staff were evacuated from several floors and part of the building remained closed, according to media reports. CNN, citing its sources, reported that emergency responders entered the building wearing gas masks and protective chemical suits.

The Pentagon's security team said further tests were needed to determine the source of the problem.

(reuters, bak)