Full Breakdown
Investigation Uncovers Illegal Biological Lab in Las Vegas Linked to California Operation
2/5/2026, 8:30:19 AM
Discovery of the Las Vegas Lab
A joint investigation by the FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) has revealed a suspected illegal biological laboratory located in a residential home in northeast Las Vegas. The search, conducted from January 31 to February 2, 2026, uncovered over 1,000 pieces of evidence, including refrigerators containing vials of unknown liquids. This operation is reportedly connected to a previous illegal lab discovered in Reedley, California, which was linked to serious health concerns involving infectious diseases.
Background and Connections to California
The Las Vegas property is owned by David He, also known as Jia Bei Zhu, a Chinese national currently in federal custody for his role in the Reedley lab operation. This earlier investigation, which began in late 2022, revealed hazardous materials, including vials labeled with pathogens such as HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis. Zhu and his business partner, Zhaoyan Wang, face multiple federal charges related to the distribution of misbranded medical devices and unauthorized medical test kits.
Key Figures Involved
The primary suspect in the Las Vegas case, Ori Solomon, 55, serves as the property manager of the home where the lab was found. He has been charged with felony disposal and discharge of hazardous waste and illegal possession of firearms, as his immigration status prohibits him from owning guns. Solomon was reportedly in contact with Zhu numerous times while Zhu was incarcerated, indicating a possible ongoing operational relationship.
Health Concerns and Eyewitness Accounts
Reports indicate that at least two individuals became "deathly ill" after exposure to the lab's contents. A cleaner who worked in the home described a foul odor and noted that she and another worker experienced severe health issues after entering the garage where the lab was located. Symptoms included respiratory problems and fatigue, leading to hospitalization for one individual.
Official Statements and Responses
Sheriff Kevin McMahill emphasized the complexity of the investigation, stating that the materials found in the Las Vegas lab were consistent with those discovered in Reedley. He assured the public that there is no immediate threat, as the situation has been contained. The FBI has since transported the collected samples to a lab for testing, with results pending.
Criticism and Opposition
Some lawmakers have expressed concern over the implications of these findings for national security. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) described the situation as a "real threat" and called for increased scrutiny of similar operations. Critics argue that the federal response to such illegal labs has been insufficient, highlighting the need for more stringent regulations.
What's Next
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities exploring connections to other properties linked to Zhu and Wang. Additional charges against Solomon may arise as the investigation unfolds. The FBI's findings could lead to broader implications for regulatory oversight of biological laboratories in the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We determined that the home was owned by the same individual connected to a prior illegal biolab investigation in Reedley, California, that occurred in 2023,” — Kevin McMahill, LVMPD Sheriff
- “This is a real threat to our national security.” — Ron Johnson, U.S. Senator
- “The scene presented a high level of complexity with materials that have not yet been identified and still require careful assessment,” — Christopher Delzotto, FBI Special Agent in Charge
This investigation highlights significant concerns regarding illegal biological operations and their potential risks to public health and safety.
