Why It Matters
A suspicious package prompted a temporary evacuation near one of the nation’s critical military installations housing intercontinental ballistic missiles. The incident disrupted operations at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming, which maintains round-the-clock nuclear deterrent operations.
What Happened
Authorities lifted an evacuation order around F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on Thursday morning after response teams investigated a suspicious package reported near Gate 1. The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office had ordered residents on the base’s east side to evacuate starting around 9:30 a.m.
The base confirmed there was no active threat to the installation. Response personnel remained on scene as a precaution while the investigation continued. Gate 1 remained closed, with officials directing traffic to Gate 5 for base access.
The evacuation order affected residents living along the base’s east side up to McComb Avenue, Country Club Avenue, and down to Cosgriff Court. Officials established a 1,850-foot cordon around Gate 1 and ordered some base personnel to shelter in place.
By The Numbers
- Evacuation lasted approximately 2 hours before being lifted late Thursday morning
- 1,850-foot security cordon established around the incident site
- F.E. Warren houses the 90th Missile Wing and has operated as an ICBM base since 1958
- Base maintains 24/7 operational alert status, 365 days per year
Zoom Out
F.E. Warren Air Force Base became the nation’s first operational Intercontinental Ballistic Missile base in 1958 and remains a critical component of America’s nuclear deterrent. The base maintains full alert status around the clock as part of the nation’s strategic defense infrastructure.
Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins said a package was left near the visitor center, prompting base security to investigate. Local law enforcement worked with base officials to secure the area. The Wyoming State Capitol was also evacuated Thursday morning as a precautionary measure.
Laramie County School District 1 reported none of its schools required evacuation based on law enforcement recommendations. Authorities closed Interstate 25 southbound exit 11 during the investigation.
What’s Next
Base officials will continue investigating the incident. Gate 1 will remain closed until the security cordon is lifted. Authorities instructed personnel and visitors to use Gate 5 for base access until further notice.
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