Michigan State University was forced to relocate several final examinations after law enforcement officials reported discovering an individual inside an academic building possessing household substances that could be utilized to operate a methamphetamine laboratory.
Charges Filed
The 31-year-old suspect was formally charged on Wednesday with malicious destruction of property and possession of substances intended for operating a meth lab. Wells Hall, the university's largest academic building, has remained closed since Monday.
Investigation Details
Campus Police Chief Mike Yankowski refrained from explicitly confirming whether an active drug laboratory was discovered within the building. However, he indicated that flooring, doors, and carpeting would require cleaning or replacement due to contamination.
Citing federal privacy legislation, Chief Yankowski declined to disclose whether the individual is enrolled as a student at the university. The suspect has been ordered to be held in jail on a $500,000 cash bond.
Discovery of Chemicals
Police responding to a trespassing call on Sunday evening found the man inside the building with multiple bags containing liquids. Subsequent analysis identified the substances as hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane.
“Most of these items are household items,” Yankowski explained. “Those products alone might not be dangerous, but if you start mixing chemicals together there is a reaction.”
Impact on University Operations
Michigan State University, located in East Lansing, is currently conducting final examinations this week, followed by graduation ceremonies. The closure of Wells Hall has necessitated the relocation of some exams to alternative venues on campus.
University officials are working to minimize disruption to students during this critical academic period. Further updates regarding the building's reopening and the status of affected exams are expected in the coming days.
