AZ Supreme Court building evacuated over package that tested positive for explosives: DPS

Courts building evacuated in Phoenix over package

DPS officials say a package that tested positive for explosive materials prompted the evacuation of multiple buildings near Downtown Phoenix on Jan. 5. FOX 10's Taylor Wirtz reports.

PHOENIX - DPS officials say a package that tested positive for explosive materials prompted the evacuation of multiple buildings near Downtown Phoenix on Jan. 5.

What we know:

The incident happened near 15th Avenue and Washington Street in Downtown Phoenix. While there is still an active scene as of approximately 3:30 p.m., the action is winding down in the area.

DPS officials said they were notified of a suspicious package at the Arizona Supreme Court at around 8:00 a.m., and per a spokesperson, the package contained multiple vials, including two that tested positive for homemade explosive substances.

"Multiple buildings were evacuated on the Capitol Mall, including the State Courts building, which houses the Arizona State Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, Division One," said DPS Public Information Officer Bart Graves. "The State Courts Building remains closed as additional sweeps are taking place. Once that process is completed, the package will be removed for further examination and then subsequent disposal."

Dig deeper:

According to state Supreme Court officials, about 150 staff members work at the building, but many of them were able to work remotely.

What's next:

An investigation remains ongoing.

Area where the incident is taking place