On Tuesday, July 23, suspicious envelopes were received at Pelican Bay State Prison in Del Norte County. During the prison’s mail screening process, these envelopes were found to contain an unknown substance. The area of the prison where the suspicious envelopes were opened was immediately quarantined and a coordinated investigation with local, state and federal law enforcement as well as public health officials was initiated.
The material found in the envelope was sent to an accredited laboratory for further analysis. The preliminary presumptive test was positive for ricin. Subsequent tests are currently underway.
Out of an abundance of caution, three individuals were initially admitted to hospital for medical evaluation. All were closely examined and have since been released.
Local and state public health officials have also notified all individuals who may have had direct exposure and are working to ensure that there is no further contamination or danger to the public at large.
The Del Norte County Office of Emergency Services has been activated to support medical health issues in the area. Correctional operations and security at Pelican Bay have not been impacted by the investigation.
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