Intruder accused of running meth lab at Michigan State University’s largest academic building

A suspected intruder allegedly set up a clandestine methamphetamine lab inside Michigan State University’s largest academic building and was arrested just one day before final exams began.

Xin Tong, 31, was taken into custody around 9:30 p.m. Sunday on the fifth floor of Wells Hall. Police said he had several backpacks and duffle bags filled with chemicals commonly used to produce methamphetamine. Officers were responding to reports of a trespasser when they encountered Tong, who identified himself using an expired MSU student ID, according to an affidavit.

After obtaining a search warrant, investigators discovered multiple containers, both labeled and unlabeled, holding unknown liquid substances inside the bags. Additional materials were found scattered throughout the building, according to MSU Department of Police and Public Safety Chief Mike Yankowski.

Authorities later identified the chemicals as sodium hydroxide pellets, hydrochloric acid, methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, and butane. While these substances can be legally purchased, they are also commonly used in the production of methamphetamine. Officials said the chemicals caused an estimated $20,000 or more in damage to the building between April 10 and April 26, according to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office.

Wells Hall was evacuated Monday and remained closed through Friday as a precaution. The building houses several academic departments, including math, English, and languages, and is typically heavily used during final exam periods, which began Monday.

Tong was formally charged Wednesday with malicious destruction of property exceeding $20,000 and operating or maintaining a methamphetamine lab. He is being held at the Ingham County Jail on a $500,000 bond. The Department of Homeland Security has placed a hold on his bond, according to jail records.

Police have not confirmed whether Tong has any current or former affiliation with Michigan State University.