The Arizona Supreme Court building in downtown Phoenix was evacuated Monday morning after a package tested positive for explosives. Court staff found the suspicious item in the building’s mailroom near 15th Avenue and Washington Street.
Authorities responded immediately, treating the package as a potential threat. Bernard Zapor, a retired ATF Special Agent in Charge, said any suspicious package is handled with maximum caution. “From the time they showed up, it’s a device. Whether it is or not doesn’t matter. They have to treat it as the most dangerous thing ever,” Zapor said.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety confirmed troopers and other law enforcement officials discovered the package contained multiple vials, including two that tested positive for homemade explosives. Officials have not revealed when the package was delivered or where it came from.
Security experts noted that the package likely passed through several hands and machines before reaching authorities. Karl de la Guerra, an international security consultant, explained that this can reduce the initial risk, but the package still requires careful handling. “It’s gone through a lot of hands and hasn’t detonated yet,” de la Guerra said.
The evacuation began shortly after 10:30 a.m., affecting hundreds of employees at the Supreme Court. The Arizona Department of Education, located across the street, was also cleared as a precaution. Alberto Rodriguez, communications director for the court, said staff were quickly directed to exit the building. “It doesn’t feel good when it gets to your workplace. We’re just following directions,” Rodriguez said.
By early afternoon, a trained technician in protective gear transported the device to a safe location using a Mobile Explosive Containment Vessel. A police motorcade escorted the package to be detonated safely. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Court officials confirmed the building was cleared for reentry around 3:30 p.m., and employees are expected to return to work on Tuesday. Zapor said authorities conducted a full sweep of the building and all incoming shipments to ensure safety. “They’re leaving knowing that it’s 100% safe for people to return,” he said.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Supreme Court issued a joint statement confirming that the investigation began at 8 a.m. on January 5, 2026. Multiple buildings on the Capitol Mall, including the State Courts Building housing the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, Division One, were evacuated as a precaution.
Officials emphasized that the package remains under investigation and will be safely removed for disposal. Additional security sweeps are ongoing to ensure all facilities are secure.
Authorities are coordinating a joint investigation with local, state, and federal agencies. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
The incident highlights the importance of stringent security measures in government buildings. Law enforcement stressed that handling and investigating potential explosive devices is always treated with extreme care to protect staff and the public.
This evacuation comes amid growing concerns about the security of public institutions. Experts say the prompt response and careful handling of the package demonstrate preparedness and proper coordination among multiple agencies.
Staff members praised the quick action and communication by the authorities. “Unfortunately, it reached the Supreme Court, but the response was professional, and everyone followed instructions,” Rodriguez said.
The Arizona Supreme Court continues to work with authorities to maintain a secure environment while the investigation into the suspicious package is completed.
