E. Bay Street Closed Due to Suspicious Package

Update (12:30 p.m.): E. Bay Street is re-opened. The suspicious white powder that prompted the closure was harmless baking soda, according to media reports. 

The original story appears as follows:

Charleston Police have closed a portion of E. Bay Street near the historic Battery as hazardous materials investigators probe a suspicious package. Here's the latest from police:

Police, Fire and the Charleston County Hazmat Team are at 40 East Bay Street in reference to a suspicious package. Officials responded to that location about 8 a.m. after dispatch received a call about a letter there with white powder inside. East Bay Street from Waters to 50 East Bay is shut down to traffic.

This is a breaking-news update. Check back for more details.