Ammonia leak at Ala. plant sends dozens to hospital with dizziness, shortness of breath

Ala. plant’s ammonia leak sends dozens to hospital

THEODORE, Ala. — Authorities say at least 50 people have been sent to the hospital after a south Alabama refrigeration plant leaked up to 300 gallons of ammonia into the air.

Capt. Shaun Hicks with the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department said the leak happened Monday at Millard Refrigerated Services in Theodore. He says that the leak has been stopped and that officials are monitoring the air near the plant on the Theodore Industrial Canal.

Hospital workers say most patients have reported dizziness and shortness of breath from the ammonia. Authorities have asked people near the plant to stay inside their homes and offices.

The plant freezes chicken parts to be exported across the globe.