FOREIGN SUBSTANCE FOUND ON GROUNDS OF THE GOVERNOR'S RESIDENCE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2001
CONTACT: Shane M. Hedges
Governor’s Office
406-444-5522

HELENA, MONTANA - An alert security guard found a foreign substance scattered on the sidewalk and lawn of the Governor's residence today. Authorities are investigating the matter and samples of the material have been sent to the DEQ's Hazardous Materials laboratory and to a criminal lab for evaluation. Results from those tests are expected in 7 to 10 days. The lawn of the residence has been cleared of the debris.

While it is not clear yet what the substance is or how it was placed near the Governor's residence, authorities do not believe the Governor or any state employees are in immediate danger. Despite that, Martz Administration officials have directed security to make more frequent rounds in the area until further notice.

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