On Friday, there were white powder scares at numerous hotels in the vicinity of MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where the Super Bowl is set to take place on Sunday. Additionally, authorities were investigating a suspicious letter sent to the Manhattan office of former Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Bracewell & Giuliani, at 1251 Avenue of the Americas. At least five New Jersey hotels are believed to have received the letters, to include: the Renaissance Meadowlands Hotel in Rutherford, the Homestead Inn in East Rutherford and the Econo Lodge in Carlstadt. There is conflicting information as to which other hotels may have been impacted, however reports indicate the Holiday Inn Express and Hampton Inn in Carlstadt are believed to have been involved as well. The substance of the letters was deemed non-hazardous, and at least one of the letter’s contents was labeled as cornstarch. Authorities also said the content of the letter sent to Giuliani’s office was “non-toxic.” Reportedly, the letter received at Giuliani’s office was postmarked from Toronto, Canada and had a return address. The letter read, “Always in my thoughts.” It is still unclear whether the incident was linked to the cases in New Jersey. None of those exposed to the suspicious contents appear to be ill at this time.
MSA's Research and Intelligence Analysis (RIA) Group has been monitoring this situation closely and has identified the following implications:
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These incidents heighten awareness and security concerns in the lead up to Sunday’s Super Bowl.
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There has been a significant increase in both visible and non-visible security surrounding the game and coinciding events. This includes canine units, radiation detectors, X-ray machines and equipment that can detect chemical, biological and nuclear threats.
- New York City remains an iconic target and the Super Bowl is a high-profile event that could provide an opportunity for terrorist organizations or individuals to garner worldwide attention.
- Additionally, there is always a possibility for criminal activity and pretty crime at large, crowded events.
- In general, as it relates to the detection of suspicious powder, companies are advised to review mailroom guidelines for such instances at their facilities. MSA would like to reinforce the importance of having knowledgeable and reliable screening measures and technologies in place.
MSA's President, Michael O'Neil, talked about the security surrounding the upcoming Super Bowl on an NBC News segment on Friday evening. Click here to watch!