Two dozen people were sent to the ER after being exposed to chlorine fumes at the Central City Convention Center pool.
Monday morning just after 10:00, 50 people were evacuated from the convention center when 24 victims were overwhelmed by fumes at the facility’s pool. The pool had just received a shipment of chlorine, according to multiple media reports.
Emergency personnel from surrounding counties traveled to Muhlenberg County to assist with transporting the victims to Owensboro Health Muhlenberg Community Hospital. The victims suffered from nausea, vomiting, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing.
Twenty-three of the mostly senior citizen victims, who were participating in water exercises as part of a Silver Sneakers program, were treated and released. One victim remains hospitalized in serious condition.
David Rhoades, Central City city administrator, told the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer that the investigation into the incident is ongoing but that a “suspected chemical reaction involving chlorine and muriatic acid” was likely the cause.
The convention center will remain closed as officials investigate. State Fire Marshal personnel are expected to arrive Tuesday to aid in the investigation.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com or 270-259-6000
