Strange Package Attached To Parachute 'Drops From Sky' In Phoenix

PHOENIX, AZ — A suspicious package attached to a parachute didn't appear to contain any illegal or harmful substances, Phoenix fire officials said Monday, but they're stymied about how it got to a shipping yard in the first place.

"Phoenix PD's main concern is how did it get here and why did it get here," Phoenix Fire Department Capt. Rob McDade told reporters.

The powder in the package, which McDade had described as similar to a large backpack, was sent to a law enforcement lab for in-depth testing. The fire department has a mobile lab where substances in hazardous materials cases can be immediately analyzed.

The package was found hanging from the rearview mirror of a truck at the shipping yard near 37th Avenue and Lower Buckeye Road. Get Phoenix Patch's real-time news alerts and free morning news letters. Like us on Facebook. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app.)

A witness said the package "looked like it came from the sky," Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said. (

The fire department personnel were evaluated at the scene and did not require hospitalization, KNXV reported.

Police said the area around the shipping yard was evacuated.

Below, watch a news conference via the Arizona Republic:

Photo via Shutterstock