The Arizona Supreme Court building in Phoenix was briefly evacuated on Monday after staff discovered a suspicious package that initially tested positive for explosive materials, prompting a swift safety response from authorities. The incident took place just before 11 a.m., when the package was found inside the historic downtown courthouse.

Upon discovery, court workers alerted building security, who then contacted the Phoenix Police Department and the Phoenix Fire Department’s bomb squad. Responding officers immediately cleared the building and established a safety perimeter while specialists evaluated the situation. Officials temporarily halted court proceedings and escorted judicial employees and visitors out of the facility as a precaution.

Bomb technicians used specialized equipment to assess the contents of the package. Early field tests indicated the presence of explosive compounds, leading responders to treat the situation with heightened caution. The fire department also deployed units to stand by in case of any hazardous reactions.

After thorough examination and additional analysis, authorities determined that the initial test results were a false positive and that the package did not contain any explosive devices or dangerous materials. Once the all-clear was given, the evacuation order was lifted and normal activities at the courthouse resumed.

No injuries were reported during the incident, and Phoenix police said they would continue to investigate how the package came to be in the Supreme Court building. Officials also thanked the public for their patience while the response unfolded and reiterated that safety protocols were followed to ensure everyone’s protection.

Source:
“Arizona Supreme Court evacuated after package tests positive for explosives” — https://www.azfamily.com/2026/01/05/arizona-supreme-court-evacuated-after-package-tests-positive-explosives/