White Substance Reported at Queens Criminal Court, 2 Hospitalized

Hazmat teams responded to the incident, leading to a temporary courthouse closure.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:21pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a white, powdery substance on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic without depicting any violence or victims.A suspicious white substance found inside a New York courthouse raises concerns about public safety and the security of government buildings.Queens Today

Two people were taken to the hospital after a white substance was reportedly found inside Queens Criminal Court on Thursday. The FDNY responded to the courthouse around 5 p.m. for a report of a white substance with four civilians experiencing minor injuries. Two people were transported to Queens General Hospital, while two others refused medical attention. The courthouse closed normally around 6:20 p.m. as hazmat teams investigated the incident.

Why it matters

The discovery of a suspicious white substance inside a courthouse can raise concerns about public safety and the security of government buildings. Incidents like this highlight the need for robust emergency response protocols and coordination between law enforcement, fire departments, and health officials.

The details

According to authorities, the FDNY responded to the Queens Criminal Court located at 125-01 Queens Boulevard after receiving a report of a white substance and people feeling ill inside the courthouse. Four civilians suffered minor injuries, with two being transported to Queens General Hospital for further evaluation. The courthouse was closed as hazmat teams investigated the scene, but it reopened for normal operations around 6:20 p.m.

  • The FDNY received the call about the white substance just before 5 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • The courthouse closed normally around 6:20 p.m. on the same day.

The players

Queens Criminal Court

A courthouse located in Queens, New York that handles criminal cases and proceedings.

FDNY

The New York City Fire Department, which responded to the incident at the Queens Criminal Court.

Queens General Hospital

The hospital where two of the individuals affected by the white substance were transported for medical evaluation.

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What’s next

Authorities will continue to investigate the source and nature of the white substance found in the Queens Criminal Court. The courthouse's security protocols and emergency response procedures may also be reviewed to ensure proper preparedness for similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and swift emergency response when dealing with potential threats to public safety, especially in sensitive government buildings. The quick actions of the FDNY and other officials helped to contain the situation and minimize harm, demonstrating the value of robust emergency planning and coordination.