Pentagon locks down over "hazardous materials incident"

Colin Demarest

The Pentagon and its surroundings, seen from the air. — An aerial view of the Pentagon in February 2025. Photo: J. David Ake/Getty Images

Portions of the Pentagon locked down Thursday in response to what local emergency responders described as a "hazardous materials incident."

Driving the news: Chief spokesperson Sean Parnell told Axios an "air quality issue" was detected, "necessitating precautionary measures until we determine its significance."

A shelter-in-place order was issued, he added, and response teams are ready.

Zoom in: The Arlington County Fire Department said it was aiding the Pentagon Force Protection Agency's hazmat team.

Reality check: It's not clear whether this is an actual emergency or a false alarm.

Add Axios on Google

Pentagon locks down over "hazardous materials incident"

What to read next