Local News

1 Person Injured, 2 NCSU Buildings Evacuated After Explosion

Two science buildings at North Carolina State University were briefly evacuated Tuesday and hazmat crews were called to the scene after a battery exploded.

Posted Updated
2 N.C. State Buildings Evacuated After Battery Explosion
RALEIGH, N.C. — Two science buildings at North Carolina State University were briefly evacuated Tuesday and hazmat crews were called to the scene after a battery exploded.

Dr. Alex I. Smirnov, associate professor of chemistry, was transported to WakeMed for treatment of minor injuries. N.C. State campus police responded to 613 Cox Hall at about 3:15 p.m.

Authorities said Smirnov was inserting a small battery into an instrument when the battery caused a minor explosion, campus police Sgt. Jon Barnwell said. The explosion caused acid to hit his face.

Authorities evacuated Cox Hall as a precaution after reports of a strong odor of sulfur, Barnwell said.

Both buildings reopened shortly after 5 p.m. The laboratory where the explosion occurred was still closed.

Neighboring Dabney Hall was also evacuated because it is connected to Cox.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.