USU student releases chemical gas in dorm, forces mass evacuations hours after FBI terrorism questioning

A Utah State University student, Joshua Peter Jager, was arrested after authorities say he contaminated his dorm with hydrochloric acid gas, causing mass evacuations just hours after being questioned by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. Jager, 20, is charged with causing a catastrophe recklessly and disorderly conduct.

The incident unfolded when USU authorities responded to a fire alarm at Mountain View Tower and discovered the entire first floor covered in a vaporous substance, later identified as hydrochloric acid gas. This prompted a mass evacuation of all dorm residents and involved EMS, Logan Fire Department, Logan HAZMAT, and USU Police.

Just days before the incident, police had responded to Jager’s dorm room after a fire alarm was triggered. Jager claimed he was boiling water and vinegar to make potatoes, but authorities discovered a stash of chemicals, including silver nitrate and potassium carbonate, along with machinery, tools, and batteries. Bomb technicians were called in due to suspicions of drug or explosive making, but the room was eventually deemed safe.

Jager was questioned by USU Police and the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force about the chemicals in his room. He denied any ties to terrorist organizations but admitted to bringing the chemicals into the dorm as a mistake. He was instructed to cease using chemicals and to contact police if he found any more in his possession.

The mass evacuation occurred just six hours after the FBI questioning, during which Jager confessed to setting off the alarm and attempting to neutralize more chemicals. The contamination caused by the gas resulted in an estimated cleanup cost of $10,000 to $20,000, with additional labor and overtime expenses.

In a statement, the university mentioned that the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be added. They also provided temporary accommodations for displaced students while decontamination procedures were carried out. Interim Vice President for Student Affairs, Krystin Deschamps, assured residents that the CARE Office is available to assist with any academic issues resulting from the evacuation.

The situation highlights the importance of proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials, as well as the swift response of emergency services in ensuring the safety of the university community. It serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with mishandling chemicals and the importance of following safety protocols in shared living spaces.