Potentially Explosive Substance Rendered Safe Following Bomb Squad Response

Multiple bomb squads responded to a potentially explosive substance found in a one-liter bottle at UC San Diego’s Pacific Hall the evening of September 28, according to UCSD’s Associate Director of University Communications, Leslie Sepuka.

The substance—identified as diethyl ether—had dissolved into organic peroxides, which are potentially explosive. Diethyl ether is a commonly used solvent in the lab where the bottle was found.

UCSD Environment, Health, & Safety (EH&S) initially responded, but they were not able to render the substance safe. The team then called in the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD) for assistance. Fire-Rescue resources were dispatched to the scene at 6:17 p.m., according to SDFD’s online dispatch website. Bomb squads from SDFD, San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, and the FBI along with HAZMAT teams from SDFD and San Diego County also assisted with the incident.

Pacific Hall was evacuated, and the surrounding area was cleared to ensure the safety of the campus community. At around 11 p.m., the bottle was removed from the building and detonated in a special container by the bomb squads. Classes and activities resumed as normal on September 29.

This story is developing. Please check back for updates.

Liam Winstead is an Assistant News Editor for The Triton.