a bunch of test tubes filled with different colored liquids
Authorities in Las Vegas are investigating a potential biological laboratory after a search warrant was executed early Saturday morning. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department SWAT team and the FBI conducted searches at two homes on the east side of the city.
What Happened
Shortly before 6 a.m. on Saturday, the SWAT team served a search warrant at a residence on Sugar Springs Drive, near East Washington Avenue and North Hollywood Boulevard. According to Sheriff Kevin McMahill, the warrant was tied to reports of a possible "biological laboratory" inside the home.
During the search, law enforcement found evidence of "possible biological material." This included refrigerators containing vials of unknown liquids, McMahill said in a news conference later that day. The exact nature of the materials is still under investigation.
While the SWAT team focused on the Sugar Springs Drive home, FBI agents searched another home on Temple View Drive, located nearby. However, no threats or concerning materials were discovered at that location, McMahill added.
Ongoing Investigation
Metro's all-hazard armored team is now working with local HAZMAT teams, fire departments, the FBI, and other partners to ensure the safe recovery and management of the items found. This type of collaboration is common in cases involving potentially hazardous materials.
Sheriff McMahill noted that the investigation is expected to take time. "The very large police and law enforcement presence will likely remain in the area for several hours, potentially even days," he said. Residents in the area can expect to see continued activity as authorities work to safely handle the situation.
It's important to note that the search was not part of any Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation, according to Metro Police. Officials have not yet disclosed what prompted the search warrant or provided additional details about the investigation's scope.
What Neighbors Should Know
Folks living in the east Las Vegas neighborhood may notice road closures or restricted access near the scene as the investigation continues. If you're in the area, it's a good idea to plan for potential delays or detours, especially along Sugar Springs Drive and Temple View Drive.
Authorities have not indicated any immediate danger to the public. However, as a precaution, residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any unusual activity to local law enforcement.
This investigation is still in its early stages, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days. For now, officials are focused on safely handling the materials found and ensuring the community's safety.
What We Know
- • The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department SWAT team served a search warrant on Saturday morning.
- • The search took place at a home on Sugar Springs Drive near East Washington Avenue and North Hollywood Boulevard.
- • FBI agents searched a nearby home on Temple View Drive but found no threats.
- • Evidence of 'possible biological material' was found, including refrigerators with vials of unknown liquids.
- • The investigation is expected to be prolonged, with law enforcement remaining in the area for hours or days.
What We Don't Know
- • The exact nature of the materials found in the Sugar Springs Drive home.
- • What prompted the search warrant in the first place.
- • Whether any arrests or charges have been made in connection to the investigation.