Maryland synagogue incident: Suspicious package found with people 'feeling ill' and hazmat crew on scene

A spokesperson says that two adults were impacted by the suspicious envelope but were not transported to a hospital

The scene in Baltimore, Maryland (WBALTV Screenshot )

Hazmat crews are investigating after a suspicious “envelope” was opened at the office of Beth El synagogue near a school, leading to an evacuation and at least two people reporting symptoms of illness, according to the Baltimore County Fire Department.

“Several people report symptoms of illness after opening a suspicious package. EMS crews evaluating,” a tweet from the fire department says.

Local media reports that emergency services were called to the Pikesville, Maryland synagogue at around 1pm local time. Early reports indicated a school had received the letter, but the location was later identified as the offices of an affiliated synagogue.

Pikesville is located roughly six miles northwest from downtown Baltimore.

A spokesperson with the Baltimore County Fire Department told The Independent that no children were reporting signs of illness from the suspicious package, and that two adults were treated on scene for “mild symptoms” but were not transported to the hospital.

“Hazmat crews are scanning building w meters for chemicals & gases; nothing significant has been detected. 33 staff and 78 children remain in the school,” a later update on Twitter from the department read.