10-10-14 Suspicious Looking Letters Cause Concern at Local Business

Employees at the B- Well Chiropractic business at 7804 E. Brainerd Road told firefighters and Chattanooga police that when they opened two letters, a powdery substance fell out that reportedly burned their fingers and hands. With assistance from the police department, Battalion Chief Jeff Eldridge ordered the business evacuated and isolated.

Members of the fire department's haz-mat team entered the business and put the letters and powder into a special evidence container. Tactical Services Chief Danny Hague said initial testing on the scene indicated that the powdery substance did not appear to be a serious threat to the women in the business, or the general public.

The three women were checked out by paramedics with Hamilton County EMS and as a precaution, they were decontaminated. Also as a precaution, the clothes they were wearing were taken by haz-mat personnel for analysis.

Despite complaining of a burning sensation, Chief Hague said the women appeared to be uninjured and required no medical treatment. The letters and powder were sealed on the scene and handed over to a U.S. postal inspector. The investigation will be handled by the U. S. Postal Service and the FBI.

In the photo: Captain Scott McCullough carries sealed bags containing the clothing worn by the women, along with other items that were exposed to the powder. Senior Firefighter Larry Olivier (left) and Firefighter David Ruffin follow behind.