Hazmat crews respond to ‘hazardous materials incident’ at the Pentagon

Virginia emergency crews deployed to the Pentagon on Thursday morning for what authorities described as a “hazardous materials incident.”

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Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed that “sophisticated systems” had “detected an air quality issue necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance.”

“The Department is executing standard protection protocols, including a shelter-in-place order for the affected area,” Parnell added, referring to the Defense Department. “Response teams are in place and ready to support building occupants.”

In a post on X, the Arlington County Fire Department said emergency units, including its hazardous materials team, were “operating at the Pentagon in support of PFPA’s Hazmat Team during a hazardous materials incident.”

I am NBC News’ producer & off-air reporter covering stories about and related to the Defense Department around the world.