HOUSTON— The FBI joined the investigation into suspicious, powder-filled envelopes sent to numerous HISD schools after officials classified the case Monday as a terroristic threat.
Houston and HISD police were called to three Houston schools Monday morning after more envelopes containing the powder were discovered.
One of the letters was found at Askew Elementary in southwest Houston. Because they had Saturday postal delivery, their letter was dropped off over the weekend.
School officials at Austin High School found a letter Monday morning when checking leftover mail from Friday.
A suspicious letter was also discovered at Lewis Elementary, but HISD spokesman Norm Uhl said the letter found at Lewis was actually addressed to Bellfort Academy. The campuses are located on the same property.
On Friday, similar powder-filled letters were sent to Alcott Elementary, Almeda Elementary, Anderson Elementary, Ashford Elementary, Attucks Middle School, Barrick Elementary, Bastian Elementary, Blackshear Elementary, Benbrook Elementary, Browning Elementary, Fonville Middle School, Briar Meadow Elementary School, Bellaire High School and Burbank Middle School.
"It does seem to be following the alphabet—most begin with ‘A’ or ‘B’—with the exception of one that starts with an ‘F’—but it seems to be following the pattern of ‘A’ and ‘B’ schools," said Uhl.
As of Monday afternoon, the suspicious powder had been sent to a total of 17 HISD schools.
The City Health Department tested the substance and said it was not harmful, posed no risk and contained no biological agents. School officials said Monday’s classes would not be interrupted.
Parent Cassandra Siddiqui said she rushed to the Bellfort campus as soon as she got the automated call about the suspicious letter.
"The first thing I thought of was the anthrax coming back. That’s why I rushed up here to get [my daughter] but if it’s cleared up, I’m good. I don’t want her to miss school if she doesn’t have to," Siddiqui said.
Another mother who didn’t want to be identified said she wasn’t taking any chances with the scare.
"I’m gonna follow my first mind. I’m coming to get [my child] because it can turn out to be worse later," she said.
The typewritten envelopes were addressed to the schools, not individuals, and contained no notes. Each contained about a teaspoon of white powder, officials said.
Because Monday is a federal holiday, mail won’t be delivered again until Tuesday.
The U.S. Postal Service said they plan to screen all letters addressed to HISD schools.
In addition, the HISD Police Department, with guidance from the U.S. Postal Service and the Houston Health Department, has developed a set of guidelines for school staff members to follow regarding any suspicious envelopes or packages.
"I commend the efforts of our principals, central office staff, HISD police, the Houston Fire Department, the FBI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their swift action in addressing this senseless act," said HISD Superintendent Terry Grier. "One of the main goals of HISD and the Board of Education is the safety and security of our children. At no time were any children in danger, and we hope that the person or persons responsible are found and prosecuted for this crime."
