A freon leak at a drug and alcohol counseling center sent more than two dozen people to hospitals in Sumner, Wash., Monday night after they complained of shortness of breath and irritated eyes, a fire official said.
Firefighters who responded to Prosperity House after a 911 call from a person who was having trouble breathing quickly found the problem was more widespread, said John McDonald of East Pierce Fire & Rescue.
By 9 p.m., 28 people had been taken to hospitals in Pierce County and south King County, he said.
None of the symptoms was considered life-threatening, KING-TV reported.
Investigators believe freon leaking from a refrigerator unit caused the symptoms, McDonald told The News Tribune.
Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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