LYNNWOOD, Wash., July 18, 2022 — Shortly after 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 16, three Lynnwood Police Officers were injured when evidence that was being processed exploded inside the police station. Below is the full police report of the investigation released today.
At 0900-hrs on Saturday, July 16, 2022, a Lynnwood Police Officer responded to a local hobby store (Hobby Lobby) 193rd/60th Ave W to retrieve what was believed to be drug paraphernalia and clothing abandoned by an unknown person. The officer returned to the police station and was in the process of cataloguing the property and weighing what was believed to possibly be fentanyl when a small ball of unknown powder exploded on the table.Â
The blast created a very loud noise, along with a concussive blast, and caused a loose piece of material to embed into a TV screen. Dust filled the room, creating an immediate concern of exposure to dangerous chemicals. The building was immediately evacuated to await a fire response.
There were two officers within the room when the blast occurred and a patrol sergeant in an adjoining office. Both officers suffered a ringing of their ears. One had a small piece of unknown shrapnel in his cheek which was easily removed. Both officers and the sergeant went directly to the hospital and were examined and released with no serious injuries. The officers have returned to their normal duties.
The Fire Department conducted a Hazardous Material examination of the area to determine if the area was contaminated. The FBI and the ATF also responded to provide expertise and investigative resources. It was ultimately determined that the scene was safe and not contaminated. It is believed that the explosive substance was a homemade concoction of volatile chemicals.
The investigation will continue regarding the person who last possessed the abandoned items. There is no indication that the store or the police department were targeted.
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Content Source: Lynnwood Police Press Release on July 18, 2022
