13 Sickened After Toxic Chemical Spill at Freeport Home Depot Prompts Mass Casualty Response

FREEPORT, N.Y. — A hazardous chemical spill inside a Home Depot Wednesday afternoon sickened at least 13 people and prompted a large-scale emergency and HazMat response.

The incident occurred before 1:45 p.m. at the Home Depot located at 160 Sunrise Highway in Freeport.

According to preliminary reports, a chemical mixture involving chlorine, bleach, and vinegar was spilled inside the store. The combination is capable of producing chlorine gas, a highly toxic respiratory irritant.

First responders from multiple fire departments, Northwell Health EMS, and Nassau County agencies responded to the scene, where a mass casualty incident was declared due to the number of patients.

Nearly a dozen ambulances were dispatched to the store, along with the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management's Mobile Emergency Response Vehicle (MERV) to assist with the incident.

Firefighters arriving at the scene donned self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) while operating inside the building because of the hazardous atmosphere.

Hazardous Materials Response teams evaluated the scene and reported that approximately two to three gallons of the chemical mixture had spilled onto the store floor.

A significant response from the Nassau County Fire Marshal's Office was also observed at the scene as crews worked to identify the hazardous substance, monitor air quality, and ensure the area was safe.

At least 13 people were reported sickened by the incident. Several patients were reportedly transported to local area hospitals for evaluation and treatment. The severity of their conditions has not been released.

The investigation into the cause of the chemical spill remains ongoing. Further information is expected to be released as officials continue their investigation.