NORTH CANAAN, CT — A suspicious package delivered to the Becton Dickinson (BD) North Canaan facility on Thursday, May 15, prompted a sweeping emergency response before testing negative for several high-risk biohazards.
The North Canaan facility, which manufactures medical devices including syringes and needles, was temporarily shut down after employees identified the package as out of the ordinary. Officials confirmed that the suspicious package raised concerns of an airborne contaminant, prompting immediate safety measures.
Employees Decontaminated, Facility Evacuated
Roughly 300 to 350 workers were evacuated and underwent full decontamination procedures, including clothing disposal and emergency showers. Two individuals were transported to a nearby hospital out of caution and were later released symptom-free.
Connecticut State Police, DEEP, local fire departments, and federal agencies responded. The facility’s ventilation system was shut down as a precaution.
Biohazard Tests Conducted at State Lab
The unidentified substance was sent to the Connecticut state laboratory in Rocky Hill. Preliminary tests ruled out major biological threats such as anthrax, ricin, smallpox, tularemia, Burkholderia, and plague. Officials also reported that day-one culture results showed no signs of biological growth.
Investigation Ongoing, No Public Threat
The FBI has assumed control of the investigation. The source and motive behind the delivery of the suspicious package remain under review. BD has temporarily halted operations at the North Canaan facility and is fully cooperating with authorities.
State officials reassured residents that no current threat to the public exists. Safety protocols were followed due to the facility’s shared ventilation system.
