Snohomish County courtroom evacuated over possible fentanyl exposure
Feb 19, 2026, 12:13 PM | Updated: 3:33 pm
A courtroom in the Snohomish County Courthouse was evacuated. (Photo courtesy of the Everett Fire Department)
(Photo courtesy of the Everett Fire Department)
A courtroom in the Snohomish County Courthouse was evacuated Thursday morning over possible fentanyl exposure.
The second-floor courtroom was evacuated after people were exposed to fentanyl residue that was released during a trial, Rachael Doniger, public information officer for the Everett Fire Department (EFD), told KIRO Newsradio.
An evidence envelope, originally reported as a bag, containing a scale was opened in the courtroom during active trial proceedings, EFD stated on Facebook.
“The scale had residue that tested positive for fentanyl,” EFD wrote. “The reason the envelope was opened remains unclear.”
Fire crews were called to the courthouse just before 11 a.m. The 20 people exposed were moved to the fourth floor.
All individuals were evaluated by fire personnel, and no one showed any symptoms.
The second-floor courtroom has been closed in the meantime.
“Snohomish County is bringing in a specialized decontamination team to safely clean and secure the affected courtroom,” EFD stated. “The exact quantity involved is unknown, and there was no visible plume or indication of a significant airborne release.”
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
