According to police reports, a hazardous materials incident occurred at the South Burlington Post Office on February 6, 2026, after a can of irritant spray accidentally opened inside a USPS delivery vehicle. The situation, initially deemed suspicious, prompted a response from various emergency services, including the Vermont State Police Bomb Squad.
Police say that the driver of the delivery truck, parked outside the post office, experienced moderate symptoms from exposure to the leaking substance. The driver was treated at the scene and later released. Investigations by first responders revealed that a can of dog repellant had burst, causing irritation and dampening several packages in the vehicle, which led to initial concerns about a dangerous parcel.
Emergency crews were alerted around 12:50 p.m. and began clearing the scene by approximately 2:30 p.m. No additional injuries or adverse effects were reported. The response involved multiple agencies, including the Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team and the South Burlington Fire and Police Departments.
Further inquiries regarding the incident should be directed to the U.S. Postal Service. Charges related to this incident have not been filed, and the situation is under review.
Source: Vermont State Police
About this report AI-assisted
Source: Vermont State Police ↗
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