Suspicious Package at Diamond Elementary

UPDATED
Police and fire rescue units were called to Diamond Elementary School at 4 Marquis Drive shortly before 9:30 a.m. on April 30 for the report of a small suspicious package that was delivered to a staff member from an unknown individual. Officer Dan Lane said police were called because the staff member found an unknown substance inside the package.

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Spokesperson Dana Tofig said police removed the package from the school and said there was no danger to students or staff. He said the school has instituted “shelter in place.”

Principal Carol Lange sent out this message to parents: “This morning, a member of our staff received an item in the mail that the staff member felt was suspicious. We contacted the police and they have responded, along with other emergency personnel. The package has been taken outside of the school and, as a precaution, the police have closed Marquis Drive. We do not believe there is any danger to our students or staff but, as a precaution, we have instituted a Shelter in Place while the police and fire personnel conduct their investigation. I will keep you updated as more information becomes available.”

According to a Gaithersburg Alert messsage sent to subscribers, the package was taken to the parking lot and there was no risk to students and staff and there was no need for an evacuation.

Shortly after noon, a Gaithersburg Alert message informed subscribers that Marquis Drive was open although emergency personnel remain on the scene.

Lane said there is no hazardous materials concern and Lange sent out another all clear message to parents:

“The police and fire departments have concluded their investigation and have determined that the item sent to a staff member at our school contained nothing harmful and there was no danger to our students and staff. The Shelter in Place was lifted at 11:45 a.m. and our day is proceeding as normal. While this incident did cause a disruption to our school day, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority and we took appropriate action to ensure their well-being. I want to commend and thank our entire school community for their cooperation and professionalism during this event. Thank you.”

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