Suspicious Package Found Outside of SMU's Bush Library

A suspicious package found in the grass at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas has been determined to not be a threat.

According to Steve Mace, community information officer for the city of University Park, the suspicious package was discovered by security for the Bush Library.  The package was found at about 8 a.m., at the walkway entrance to the library, before the library and presidential museum were open for business.

Officials have not said what was in the package, which was described by Mace as "small in size."

Around 80 employees were sheltering in place inside the library while the investigation was underway. SMU officials said all classes and normal business operations continued on campus during the investigation.

The Presidential Center closed during the investigation and released the following statement:

The George W. Bush Presidential Center, which includes the George W. Bush Library and Museum, the George W. Bush Institute, and the supporting retail components, is temporarily closed.  A suspicious package was found near the Bush Avenue entrance of the Bush Institute around 8 a.m.  Following standard protocol, local authorities were contacted and are in coordination with the Bush Center security and SMU police department.  All staff located on site at the Bush Center is following standard protocol and is sheltering in place.

The community is advised to avoid Bush Avenue and SMU Boulevard. Moody Coliseum and Crum Basketball Center have been temporarily closed.

The George W. Bush Presidential Center was dedicated in April and opened to the public on May 1. The complex includes a 15-acre park filled with native Texas prairie grasses and wildflowers.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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