The Arizona Supreme Court and nearby buildings were evacuated after a suspicious package containing homemade explosives was discovered. Authorities, including DPS and the ATF, responded quickly, ensuring no injuries while investigating the threat.

By Madison E. Goldberg | Published January 6, 2026, 12:59 AM EST

Danger at Arizona Supreme Court:

Early Monday morning, January 5, 2026, the Arizona Supreme Court and nearby government buildings were evacuated after authorities discovered a suspicious package containing what appeared to be homemade explosives. While the discovery prompted swift action from law enforcement, including the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), no injuries were reported.

The evacuation came just as staff and visitors were starting their day, and it quickly turned a normal Monday morning into a tense situation for those in the Capitol Mall area.

Suspicious Package Sparks Quick Response

Officials say the package was discovered around 8 a.m. local time near the Arizona Supreme Court building. DPS officers responded immediately and tested the contents, determining the package contained multiple vials of homemade explosives.

“A suspicious package was received by our mailroom and has tested positive for homemade explosives,” read a letter sent to court staff, according to documents obtained by ABC 15.

DPS Public Information Officer Bart Graves emphasized that the safety of both the public and court employees was the top priority. “Once the package was identified as potentially explosive, we evacuated multiple buildings in the area, including the State Courts building, which houses the Arizona State Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals, Division One,” he said.

Buildings Cleared as a Precaution

The evacuation wasn’t limited to the Supreme Court alone. Several surrounding buildings were also cleared to ensure no one was in harm’s way. Officers conducted thorough sweeps of the State Courts building before allowing it to reopen. The suspicious package was removed for further analysis and safe disposal.

“The State Courts Building remains closed as additional sweeps are taking place,” Graves explained. “Once that process is complete, the package will be safely removed and examined to determine the next steps.”

Authorities have not yet confirmed how the package arrived, or if it had been received by anyone before the alarm was raised.

Federal Agencies Join Investigation

The ATF’s Phoenix branch was dispatched to provide specialized support. According to a post on X, agents were sent “to investigate a suspicious substance found at the location.” Homemade explosives are unpredictable and dangerous, which is why ATF involvement is standard in cases like this.

Experts point out that homemade explosives can be made from everyday materials, making them extremely hazardous. Handling them requires specialized knowledge to prevent accidental detonation.

Statement from Arizona Governor

Governor Katie Hobbs issued a statement on X thanking first responders and law enforcement for their quick work.

“Thank you to our first responders and law enforcement for their swift action following the evacuation of the Arizona Supreme Court after a suspicious package tested positive for explosives,” she wrote. “Public safety is my top priority. I’ll continue to monitor this situation closely and ensure Arizonans stay informed.”

Her statement highlights the seriousness of the incident and reassures residents that authorities are taking every precaution.

No Injuries Reported

Despite the danger, no one was hurt during the evacuation. Law enforcement made sure the area was clear and safe before allowing court staff and visitors to return. Court operations are expected to resume as usual on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.

Authorities stressed that the evacuation was a precautionary measure, reflecting standard protocol when explosive materials are suspected.

Investigation Underway

At this time, no suspects have been identified. Authorities are investigating how the package arrived, whether it was intended for a specific individual or office, and whether it poses any continuing threat.

Investigators are examining surveillance footage, delivery records, and witness accounts. “It’s a careful and thorough process,” a DPS official said. “We’re committed to ensuring that all potential threats are neutralized before normal operations resume.”

Law enforcement has also asked the public to report any suspicious activity around government buildings, particularly unusual deliveries or unusual behavior near the State Courts area in the past few days.

Why Safety Protocols Matter

Incidents like this, while rare, highlight the importance of strict safety protocols at government buildings. Evacuations, controlled perimeters, and careful inspections are designed to protect lives.

Homemade explosives are especially concerning because they can be unstable and dangerous even in small quantities. Even a small mishap could lead to serious injuries or damage. Authorities want the public to understand that these safety measures are not overcautious—they save lives.

“Following safety protocols can prevent tragedies,” Graves said. “Even minor details matter when it comes to explosive threats.”

Context and Related Incidents

This is not the first time suspicious packages have triggered evacuations at U.S. government facilities. Over the past several years, courthouses and state buildings have occasionally received packages containing unknown powders or substances. Most turned out to be harmless, but law enforcement treats every threat seriously.

Experts note that homemade explosives are sometimes used in targeted attacks but can also be sent randomly to intimidate or disrupt. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the Arizona Supreme Court package.

Community Response

The news spread quickly, and local residents expressed relief that no one was injured. Social media platforms were filled with praise for first responders and law enforcement personnel. Many residents also expressed concern, highlighting the unpredictability of such events and the need for vigilance.

“This could have been much worse if the package had been handled differently,” one local resident said. “I’m glad everyone followed instructions and no one was hurt.”

Looking Ahead

The Arizona Supreme Court is set to resume normal operations on Tuesday, January 6, once the package has been safely removed and security sweeps are complete. Investigators will continue tracing the package’s origins and ensuring no additional threats exist.

Authorities urge residents and staff in the area to stay alert and report anything suspicious. “Even small details can help prevent dangerous situations,” Graves said.

Conclusion

The evacuation of the Arizona Supreme Court serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness, coordination among agencies, and public vigilance. Thanks to the swift action of DPS, ATF, and other first responders, the situation was resolved without harm.

As the investigation continues, authorities are focused on determining how the package arrived, whether anyone is responsible, and ensuring that such incidents do not happen again. The episode underscores the unpredictable nature of modern threats and the importance of safety measures, awareness, and rapid response.

Sources

ABC 15 Arizona – Arizona Supreme Court evacuated after suspicious package

Arizona Department of Public Safety – Press Statement on Capitol Mall Evacuation

Arizona Republic – Investigation ongoing after suspicious package found near Arizona Supreme Court

X / Twitter – ATF Phoenix Branch Post, Jan. 5, 2026

Governor Katie Hobbs Official X Post, Jan. 5, 2026