Police Believe Medford HS 'Unknown Substance' Was Cleaning Agent

MEDFORD, MA — Investigators believe an "unknown substance" found twice this month at Medford High School was a cleaning agent, according to the Medford Police Department. In a Jan. 24 letter to Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent, Police Chief Jack Buckley wrote that detectives interviewed the high school cleaning staff as part of their investigation.

"They have made a determination, with a high degree of confidence, that the substance originally discovered is a common cleaning agent used to clean the school," Buckley wrote. "There is both video and testimonial evidence to support the finding."

According to Buckley, the cleaner was used in a bathroom where the substance was found the next day. The canister of cleaning agent used was similar to the substance, Buckley wrote.

The police and fire departments will continue to investigate. There have been no reported ill effects among students or staff members, nor was there any evidence to suggest the substance was an illicit drug, according to Buckley.

Previously: 'Unidentified Substance' Found Twice At Medford High School