Las Vegas authorities are investigating a residence for evidence of an illegal biological laboratory, potentially linked to a similar case uncovered in California in 2023. A SWAT team served a search warrant on Saturday, January 31, at a home in northeast Las Vegas, discovering what police described as “evidence of possible biological material to include refrigerators with vials containing unknown liquids.”
Laboratory-type equipment, containers with unknown substances discovered inside garage
The investigation began after authorities received information about potential hazardous materials stored at the residence over a week ago. Investigators learned the property owner had connections to the 2023 illegal biolaboratory investigation in Reedley, California, where materials associated with infectious diseases – including COVID-19, HIV, hepatitis, and malaria – were reportedly found.
During the search, a tactical robot and drones were used to assess the area before personnel in protective gear entered a locked garage. Investigators recovered over 1,000 pieces of evidence, including a bio-safety hood, centrifuge, and refrigerators containing unknown liquids. The materials have been sent to FBI labs for testing.
Police arrested Ori Solomon, 55, the property manager of the Las Vegas residence and a nearby home that was also searched, on charges related to disposing of hazardous waste. Three individuals renting rooms in the home were removed but are not considered involved in the investigation.
2023 California biolab investigation
The Reedley, California investigation, which began in December 2022, revealed an unlicensed laboratory operating with samples of infectious agents and medical waste. Authorities determined a Chinese medical company registered in Nevada was operating the facility. In October 2023, Zhu, identified as the operator, was arrested for manufacturing and distributing misbranded medical devices and making false statements to the Food and Drug Administration.
Prosecutors allege Zhu and his co-conspirators manufactured and sold hundreds of thousands of unauthorized COVID-19 test kits, as well as tests for other conditions, generating over $1.7 million. Zhu remains in custody pending a federal trial in April.
Following the Las Vegas discovery, Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley has called for swift action on the “Preventing Illegal Laboratories and Protecting Public Health Act,” which aims to strengthen oversight of biolabs. A House Select Committee report linked the California lab to the Chinese Communist Party, citing unexplained financial transactions and allegations of intellectual property theft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was found at the Las Vegas residence?
Investigators discovered evidence of possible biological material, including refrigerators with vials containing unknown liquids, laboratory-type equipment, a bio-safety hood, and a centrifuge.
Is there a connection between the Las Vegas and California investigations?
Police stated the property owner in Las Vegas is connected to the 2023 illegal biolaboratory investigation in Reedley, California.
What charges has Ori Solomon been arrested on?
Ori Solomon, the property manager, was arrested and booked into the Clark County Detention Center for disposing of and discharging hazardous waste.
As the investigation continues and the FBI analyzes the recovered materials, it remains to be seen what specific pathogens, if any, were present at the Las Vegas residence. Will this case spur further legislative action to regulate and monitor potentially dangerous biological research facilities?
