Package that sparked ASDA evacuation in Leeds found to be ‘non-suspicious’
The investigation into the incident has been “closed”
A package that sparked the evacuation of ASDA’s headquarters in Leeds was not suspicious, authorities have said.
Staff were rushed out of the office on Great Wilson Street on Monday (November 9) and road closures were put in place following the discovery. An eyewitness said that people were not being allowed to enter the car park to retrieve their cars.
An army bomb squad was sent in and carried out a controlled explosion but has since been confirmed that the package was “non-suspicious” and “non-viable”.
In an update today (November 10), West Yorkshire Police confirmed that the investigation has been “closed”.
A spokesperson for the force said: “A package reported to officers that was found at Asda House on Great Wilson Street, Leeds city centre yesterday (9 November) has been confirmed to be non-suspicious and non-viable.
“Multiple roads were closed and the Army EOD were called to attend following the incident that saw a building evacuated as a precaution and a cordon put in place.
“The EOD carried out a controlled explosion and following enquiries, the package is not being treated as suspicious and the investigation has been closed.
“Officers would like to thank motorists and members of the public for their cooperation.”
ASDA House has reopened following the evacuation yesterday, the Yorkshire Evening Post can confirm. The supermarket giant has shared its thanks to emergency services for their support during the incident on Monday afternoon.