Threatening Letter With White Powder Prompts Investigations at Scholten’s Grand Rapids Office

Grand Rapids Kalamazoo Battle Creek, MI, October 16, 2026 —

A threatening letter containing an unidentified white powder was sent to U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten’s Grand Rapids office, prompting investigations by the Grand Rapids Police Department and the FBI. All staff members are reported to be safe.

The letter falsely claimed to be from the Democratic Socialists of America, which has denied any involvement. The available information does not identify who sent the letter or explain how the false claim of affiliation was established.

The powder has not been identified in the information provided. No details were given about whether it was tested, what the letter said beyond its threatening nature, or whether anyone came into contact with the substance. The date the letter was received was also not provided.

The information available does not specify what investigative steps either agency has taken, whether the office’s operations were affected, or whether authorities have identified a suspect. It also does not provide further details about the nature of the threat.

The reported safety of the staff is the only information provided about the people at the office. No injuries or other effects were described. The Grand Rapids Police Department and the FBI are investigating, but no findings or further developments were included in the available account.

Story summarized from the original created by Kacie Sinton on www.fox17online.com, see more information here.