Instituto Tecnológico de Veracruz evacuated after discovery of explosive acid

Approximately 6,300 people, including 5,700 students and 600 faculty members, were evacuated from the Instituto Tecnológico de Veracruz (ITVer) following the discovery of three kilograms of picric acid in a chemistry laboratory.

Local Civil Protection officials reported that the substance, which is highly explosive if mishandled, was found in storage. While the chemical is used for protein analysis and other academic research under qualified supervision, its current storage conditions prompted an emergency response.

Emergency services, including municipal firefighters, managed the evacuation to ensure no injuries or chemical exposure occurred. A private company has been tasked with the collection and transport of the material. Academic activities at the institute remain suspended pending the completion of safety procedures and an investigation into the origin and storage conditions of the substance.