FBI Takes Possession Of Chester Co. Ballot With Suspicious Substance Inside

WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County mail-in ballot containing a suspicious substance has been taken into the custody of the FBI, officials confirmed, and the ballot will remain unopened until election day in accordance with state law.

The nature of the substance remains unknown, though no chemical or biological hazards were found in the Chester County government building last Friday after the envelope was reported.

A hazardous materials emergency crew responded to the building at around 10:06 a.m. Friday on 313 West Market Street.

The building was evacuated and the area nearby closed off to traffic and residents as the scene was investigated.

A Chester County Voter Services employee found the substance-filled envelope, which was described only as "non-liquid."

Within 45 minutes of arriving, the hazmat crew gave the all clear in the room where the envelope was found. No injuries or illnesses were reported.

The investigation remains underway.