UPDATE: Virginia Lottery building reopens after suspicious package prompts police response

UPDATE: Capitol Police have reopened the Virginia Lottery building and the surrounding streets after a suspicious package prompted closures and a police search.

"We are able to confirm there was a suspicious package," said Caroline Frye, a spokeswoman for the agency. "The building was evacuated out of precaution and in accordance to protocol. After further investigation, there was no threat and the building has been cleared for entry."

Frye said there were no details at this time about what the package contained.

12:00 p.m.: Capitol Police have closed several downtown streets around the Virginia Lottery building due to what a spokeswoman said was “a developing situation.”

Caroline Frye, a public relations specialist for the agency, said that 5th and Franklin, 6th and Franklin, and 6th and Grace St. are closed. The Richmonder observed a heavy police presence in the area, particularly around the Lottery building.

“We are encouraging everyone to avoid the area at this time,” she said. “We will provide further information as it comes available.”

The Richmond Police Department said Capitol Police are the lead agency on the scene. The Richmond Fire Department is also responding.

The RPD Active Calls log notes that officers responded to a call about a “suspicious package” in the 600 block of East Main Street at 10:23 a.m. this morning.