Mayor Karen Bass Friday said that it was two of her staffers — not two City Hall East mail room workers, as originally reported — who were taken to a hospital Thursday after opening a package that contained “concerning content” that was later deemed harmless.
A source close to the investigation confirmed to City News Service that the package was addressed to Bass, but its contents were not revealed.
“First and foremost I want to recognize the members of my team who were impacted by this incident,” Bass said in a statement. “I have spoken with the staffers involved and thanked them for their continued service to our city.
“Every single day, staff in my office and throughout City Hall selflessly serve. What happened yesterday (Thursday) is an unfortunate reminder that sometimes public service is dangerous work, but the work of the people must go forward and we will remain vigilant.”
Police and fire crews responded to the mail room at 200 N. Main St. shortly after 2:40 p.m. Thursday. Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman Margaret Stewart said a white powdery substance had been discovered, prompting the response.
Stewart originally reported that two workers in the mail room had opened the package, but Friday the mayor’s office said it was actually a pair of Bass staffers.
They were evaluated by paramedics at the scene and then taken to a hospital as a precaution, though neither showed any symptoms of illness, Stewart said Thursday.
“I want to thank the first responders of LAFD, LAPD, the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspector and the team from County Hazmat for responding to this incident swiftly and ensuring our safety,” Bass said in a statement.
Stewart said the investigation has been given over to the LAPD.