A clandestine meth lab was allegedly operated at Michigan State University’s Wells Hall, the institution’s largest academic building, leading to the arrest of a suspect.
Authorities have charged 31-year-old Xin Tong with felony offenses related to the suspected meth lab, along with misdemeanor trespassing. The university’s police department confirmed these charges.
This week, officers were dispatched to Wells Hall following reports of a suspicious individual, strong odors, and mysterious substances scattered on the floor, as reported by WILX. Upon arrival, they encountered Tong and identified him using his expired MSU student ID.
During the investigation, officers discovered that Tong was carrying several bags. A subsequent search, conducted under a warrant, revealed bottles containing substances often associated with meth production.
“The chemicals found include sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane,” stated the MSU police. They reassured the public by noting that multiple tests carried out by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety confirmed that the environment in Wells Hall posed no risk to the community.
“The chemicals include sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane. Multiple tests performed by the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) confirm the environment in Wells Hall does not pose a risk to our community,” MSU police said.
Officials later clarified that a meth lab was never located inside Wells Hall.
Officers discovered several bottles containing substances commonly used in the manufacture of meth inside Xin Tong’s bags. (Getty Images)
“The suspect was found in possession of chemicals and/or equipment that could be used in the production of methamphetamine, which were contained within his personal property,” police said.
Tong allegedly caused significant damage to the doors, flooring, and fixtures in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26.
He has been charged with trespassing, malicious destruction of a building over $20,000 and felony controlled substance-operate/maintain lab involving methamphetamine.
Xin Tong allegedly caused significant damage to the doors, flooring, and fixtures in Wells Hall between April 10 and April 26. (Getty Images)
Wells Hall was evacuated on Monday, and it remained closed through Friday “out of an abundance of caution,” the university said in a press release, adding that there “continues to be no known threat to the campus community.”
Tong is being held at the Ingham County Jail on a $500,000 bond. The Department of Homeland Security also reportedly placed a hold on his bond.
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