Rep. Elijah Cummings (Getty)
Hazmat and FBI investigated a suspicious substance found at the office of Congressman Elijah Cummings in Baltimore, Maryland this morning. Authorities tested a black substance to determine its hazard level. The substance in question has been described as a “dark-colored material.” It was discovered on the doorstep of congressman’s office this morning.
FBI at Cummings scene pic.twitter.com/pUQvtl76uB
— Lowell Melser (@MelserWBAL) August 7, 2013
Rep. Cummings’ office is located on the 1000 block of Park Avenue in midtown Baltimore. The building has been evacuated. According to local WBALTV, Ian Brennan, a spokesman for the city fire department, is not aware of any note being left with the substance. CBS Local was also reporting that authorities were gathering evidence, with special attention to the front door.
Suspicious substance found on Elijah Cummings office front door. Hazmat & FBI investigating. #wbaltv pic.twitter.com/rPJJeSMjeU
— Lowell Melser (@MelserWBAL) August 7, 2013
The Baltimore Bomb Squad analyzed the substance and came to the conclusion that it “was not explosive materiel and that there was no active threat,” according to a statement issued by Cummings.
Sen. Cummings is the ranking member of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.