Santa Cruz County building closed after suspicious white powder package found at Congressman Panetta's office

The Santa Cruz County government building was evacuated and closed after a suspicious package containing a white powdery substance was found at the office of Congressman Jimmy Panetta on Ocean Street. The county sheriff's office said the material was later determined to be harmless, but the building is expected to remain closed for the remainder of the day while the investigation continues.

"We are aware of similar incidents reported elsewhere in the country and are investigating whether there may be any connection. No connection has been confirmed at this time," the sheriff's office said.

Congressman Panetta issued a statement saying the envelope was opened by staff, the powder was discarded, and 911 was called. He emphasized that staff members were cleared by medical officials and thanked local law-enforcement and first responders for their swift response.

"An envelope containing a suspicious white powder was delivered to my Santa Cruz district office and opened by staff this morning. Upon realizing that there was powder in the envelope, she immediately put the envelope in the garbage can, cleared fellow staff members out of the office, and called 911. My priority is the safety and security of my staff, and they have been cleared by medical officials. I’m grateful to local law enforcement and first responders for their swift response," Panetta said.

The incident follows a series of similar mailings reported by lawmakers across the United States, including Representatives Zoe Lofgren, Kevin Kiley, Seth Moulton and others, as well as several senators. Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, are leading a nationwide investigation. Preliminary field tests on the powder have so far found no hazardous material, with further analysis pending.