EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State University was forced to move several final examinations to new locations after authorities arrested a man found with chemical substances that could be used for methamphetamine production inside the campus’s biggest academic facility.
A 31-year-old individual faces charges filed Wednesday for malicious property destruction and possession of materials to operate a methamphetamine laboratory. Wells Hall remains shuttered since Monday following the incident.
Campus Police Chief Mike Yankowski stopped short of confirming whether investigators found an operational drug manufacturing setup within the facility. However, court documents indicate the chemical substances “destroyed approximately $20,000 or more of Wells Halls, specifically multiple doors and flooring.”
The police chief would not confirm the suspect’s student status, though the police affidavit notes he carried an outdated student identification card. A judge set his bond at $500,000 cash.
Officers responded to a trespassing report Sunday evening and found the individual inside the building carrying several bags containing liquids, which testing revealed to be hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone and butane, according to Yankowski.
“Most of these items are household items,” Yankowski said. “Those products alone might not be dangerous, but if you start mixing chemicals together there is a reaction.”
The East Lansing university is currently conducting final examinations this week before upcoming graduation ceremonies.
