DC Fire Emergency Services (DCFEMS) and police were investigating reports of a white substance found at Eastern Market and Metro Center Subway Stations Monday morning.
A spokesperson for DC FEMS said two calls were received within 15 or 20 minutes reporting suspicious substances at Eastern Market and then Metro Center stations. White powdery substances were found near the elevators.
Testing by DC FEMS revealed the substance to be a tacum or baby powder-like substance, he said.
The situations were cleared by DC FEMS hazardous material staff shortly after 11 a.m., the spokesperson said, and the investigation passed to metro police and MPD.
The person shown in the photo below spread unknown white powder substance on benches at Eastern Market, then took train to Metro Center where he exited via elevator. If you see him or have info on his ID, call MTPD at 202-962-2121 or text MyMTPD (696873) #wmata
Eastern Market, which is open for New Year’s dinner shopping, was affected by the closure.
Routes closed include
- Eastbound 700 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, near Eastern Market
- Seventh Street SE from Pennsylvania Avenue SE to SOuth Carolina Avenue Se
- Eastbound 700 block of D Street SE
- 1100-1200 blocks G Street NW
Train service was suspended at the two stations shortly after 10 a.m. Monday morning. Train service is suspended between Federal Armory SW and Stadium Armory Stations due to the police investigation.
The stations re-opened shortly before noon Monday with residual delays expected.
This post has been updated.
