Jurupa Valley recycling plant evacuated after hazmat spill; 9 people hospitalized
Firefighters with the Riverside County Fire Department evacuated a recycling plant Friday in the 2200 block of Via Cerro, just east of Market Street, in Jurupa Valley after a hazmat spill.
Seven civilians were transported to a hospital and more than 300 employees were forced to evacuate due to the effects from the substance.
Two firefighters were also treated, but eventually released, according to Cal Fire Riverside County Fire Department.
#ViaCerroIC UPDATE- Final : The 2 firefighters have been treated and released. No updates on civilians. The RCOFD Haz Mat team made entry and located/identified substance in container as a caustic material. Environmental Health handling cleanup. Resources available shortly.
— CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department (@CALFIRERRU) September 23, 2022
Witnesses reported smelling fumes in the area and it was determined by Cal Fire that the smell came from caustic material that was in a container.
The incident was first reported around 11 a.m. The agency said that a half dozen engine crews and two ambulances were sent to the location.
As of 11:30 a.m., the hazmat unit was preparing to investigate further and initiate a possible cleanup at the site.
No street closures were in effect around the location.
(This is a developing story. Check back for updates.)