DNA Links Scientist to Anthrax Attacks

Investigators have DNA evidence that links biodefense expert Bruce Ivins to the deadly 2001 anthrax attacks, but the case is largely circumstantial, the New York Times reports. Prosecutors have linked the anthrax used in mailings targeting news networks, newspapers, and Congress with a flask used by Ivins at his Maryland lab, but at least 10 people had access to the flask, a source tells the Times. Ivins is also linked to prestamped envelopes used in the attack, which were sold at a Maryland post office he frequented.

Records also show extensive after-hours use of his lab around the time the letters were mailed, the source said. Ivins, 62, committed suicide last week on the day he was scheduled to discuss a plea deal. Authorities are expected to officially release evidence against him as early as this week, before closing the invesigation. (More anthrax stories.)