EAST LANSING, Michigan — A man has been arrested after authorities discovered a suspected meth lab inside Michigan State University’s Wells Hall, forcing the evacuation and temporary closure of one of the school’s busiest academic buildings during finals week.

Police identified the suspect as Xin Tong, 31, who was taken into custody on April 26, 2026, after officers responded to reports of trespassing and property damage. Investigators found multiple bags containing chemicals such as sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane — all commonly used in methamphetamine production.

Tong now faces felony charges of operating and maintaining a meth lab and malicious destruction of property exceeding $20,000. He was arraigned on April 29 and remains in the Ingham County Jail on a $500,000 bond, with Homeland Security placing a hold on his release.

MSU officials confirmed that Wells Hall, home to the English, Mathematics, and Languages departments, was evacuated on April 27 and will remain closed until May 1 while crews conduct cleanup and safety assessments. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety assured the community that the chemicals do not pose an ongoing risk.

Damage to the building is estimated at more than $20,000, primarily due to contamination and remediation efforts. The incident has disrupted final exams and classes, prompting the university to relocate affected schedules.

MSU Police Chief Mike Yankowski acknowledged the disruption, saying the closure was necessary to protect students and staff. “We know the closure of Wells Hall has raised concern among members of our community, inconvenienced students, faculty, and staff scheduled to work and take final exams in the building,” the university said in a statement.

The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the dangers of clandestine drug labs in public spaces and the importance of vigilance in campus safety. Wells Hall is expected to reopen once authorities complete their investigation and certify the building safe.

This shocking discovery at Michigan State University underscores the risks posed by illegal drug operations and the swift response required to safeguard academic communities.

Image from Lansing Glass Company