Details on Would-Be Bombing of Women's Clinic

From the Austin Police Department's Public Information Office:

LOCAL AND FEDERAL OFFICIALS INVESTIGATE EXPLOSIVE DEVICE

On Wednesday, April 25th, at approximately 2:15 p.m. APD patrol officers responded to a suspicious package call at the Austin Women’s Health Center parking lot located at 1902 South I-35. The 9-1-1 call was placed by a clinic employee who also notified ATF and FBI per the clinic protocol. The clinic and an insurance agency were evacuated, as well as one apartment building behind the incident location.

The Bomb Squad was notified and examined the package. After reviewing the information collected, the decision was made to render the package safe. All four southbound lanes of I-35 were briefly closed while the package was rendered safe. Closer examination of the package revealed an unknown powdery substance in the device. The Homeland Defense Team and the Austin Fire Department responded with specialized equipment to conduct field analysis to determine the chemical makeup of the substance. After the initial field analysis, it was determined that the powder was an explosive powder, not a biological health hazard.

It was determined that the package was an explosive device and would have caused serious bodily injury and/or death had it functioned. A criminal investigation is being conducted by local and federal authorities.

The City of Austin has made great strides and continues to seek initiatives to ensure that the appropriate training and resources are available to guarantee a prepared and quick response to any critical incident. City of Austin public safety entities work jointly with federal, state and local agencies during critical incidents, as well as long-term projects, to assure the safety of the Austin community.

It is just as important for the community to be diligent and assist public safety entities by providing information to authorities regarding suspicious behavior and/or activities. Citizens who are aware of individuals who may target specific businesses or individuals should notify the appropriate authorities. Public safety entities and the community must work together to assure the safety of all Austin residents.