Everett Fire Responding to Potential Fentanyl Exposure at Snohomish County Courthouse

The Everett Fire Department and the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office are responding to potential fentanyl exposure during a trial at the Snohomish County Courthouse.

Out of an abundance of caution, all occupants of the courtroom on the 2nd floor were moved to the 4th floor where they are being evaluated. At this time, no one is exhibiting any symptoms.

An estimated 20 people may have been exposed to fentanyl residue inside a 2nd-floor courtroom during the trial.

There is a significant fire personnel response on scene to assist with medical evaluations and ensure everyone’s safety. Everett Fire is working in coordination with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.

UPDATE 12:35 PM: Good news. All parties involved have been evaluated. No symptoms of exposure have been exhibited and no one was transported to the hospital. All fire and EMS personnel have cleared .

UPDATE 3:18 PM: 

At 11:55 a.m., Everett Fire Department responded to the Snohomish County Courthouse after an evidence envelope (originally reported as a bag) containing a scale was handled and opened in a second-floor courtroom during active trial proceedings, potentially exposing individuals inside. The scale had residue that tested positive for fentanyl. The reason the envelope was opened remains unclear.

Out of an abundance of caution, all courtroom occupants were relocated to the fourth floor for medical evaluation. Two aid cars, an engine, a medical services officer (MSO), and a battalion chief responded to assist with evaluations and ensure the safety of everyone present. The second-floor courtroom has been temporarily closed by the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.

All individuals were evaluated. No one exhibited symptoms of exposure, and no transports to the hospital were necessary. Fire and EMS personnel cleared the scene just after 12:30 p.m. Everett Fire Department coordinated closely with the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office throughout the incident.

Snohomish County is bringing in a specialized decontamination team to safely clean and secure the affected courtroom. The exact quantity involved is unknown, and there was no visible plume or indication of a significant airborne release.