Cherry Street building reopens, mysterious powder deemed ‘non-biological’

NAUGATUCK — Police are allowing residents of 123 Cherry St. back in their homes after the FBI determined a suspicious white powder found there last week is not a threat.

In a statement released early Sunday, police said the powder is “non-biological” and the building is safe enough for residents to return.

An envelope containing the unknown powder was mailed to a resident on the second floor of the building last Thursday. Police evacuated residents of the building and closed Mario’s Pizza as the powder was tested. Police said the pizza parlor has also been reoccupied.

Investigators said they have been unable to determine exactly what the substance is, and expect a full report within two weeks.