19 people hospitalized after Walmart unknown hazmat incident

A mystery irritant inside a Walmart sent 19 people to the hospital Tuesday and forced a full evacuation, though fire officials said hours later that no hazard had been found.

Firefighters and hazmat crews responded to the store on Cooper Street around 4:15 p.m. after multiple 911 calls from people reporting respiratory issues and a burning sensation in their throats.

“When fire personnel pulled up, they were met by a large number of people — about two dozen — coming out coughing and just being irritated,” said Andrew Halter, chief of hazmat for Gloucester County Emergency Response.

Jeffrey Jones, who was at the store’s barber shop with his two sons, said they felt the irritant in their throats before quickly leaving. His sons experienced dizziness, nausea and a tingling tongue, he said. All three were released from the hospital after a few hours.

“My biggest concern, as a father, isn’t so much about myself,” Jones said. “We just want to ensure that whatever it was is found out.”

Investigators reviewed surveillance footage and checked for mechanical issues but have not identified the source, Halter said. The store was cleared for employees to begin a deep clean and will reopen at 6 a.m. Wednesday. Open produce and baked goods will be discarded out of caution.

“The safety of our associates and customers is a top priority,” Walmart said in a statement, thanking first responders for their quick response.