Suspected Las Vegas biolab is 'an enormous problem,' senator says

Investigators collected vials described as unknown liquids during a search of a private residence in Las Vegas, and Sen. Ron Johnson said the discovery is "an enormous problem" and raised concerns about gene-editing tools like CRISPR and national security.

Investigators searched a private residence in Las Vegas and collected vials described as "unknown liquids," according to reporting. Sen. Ron Johnson said the situation is "an enormous problem" and raised concerns about individuals using gene-editing tools such as CRISPR and potential national security implications. Authorities have said the site may be connected to Jia Bei Zhu, who was arrested in 2023 over alleged permit and labeling issues related to test manufacturing. The person named has denied involvement, though his name appears as the registered agent for the company that owns the property. Known details: - Investigators conducted a search of a private home in Las Vegas and removed vials described in reports as "unknown liquids." - Sen. Ron Johnson said the discovery is "an enormous problem" and cited concerns about CRISPR and national security. - Authorities have linked the location to Jia Bei Zhu, who faced a 2023 arrest over permit and labeling allegations; his attorney has denied his involvement. Summary: Officials describe the discovery as raising oversight and security concerns, and reporting links the site to a person previously arrested in 2023 for permit and labeling issues. Undetermined at this time.