The Planned Parenthood clinic in Sarasota, Fla., was evacuated Monday after receiving a report of an unknown substance inside the building.
Hazmat crews Sarasota County Fire and Southern Manatee are currently responding to the clinic. Seven six patients have been transported to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for evaluation.
According to reports, the crews found chemicals in a cleaning closet they were not able to identify, and have since been removed from the building.
According to reports, 911 dispatchers received a call about the unknown substance around 10:30 a.m. Eastern time. People inside the building reported experiencing a shortness of breath.
An additional 34 people were moved to an air conditioned bus outside the building, though they showed no symptoms.
Planned Parenthood staff is expected to be allowed back into the building later in the afternoon.
According to Planned Parenthood of Southwest Florida and Central Florida, no patients were in the building at the time.
“We are grateful to emergency responders and law enforcement for their quick response. Here in Florida and across the country, Planned Parenthood has strong security measures in place, works closely with law enforcement agencies, and has a very strong safety record. We are looking into the cause of this issue and will keep you informed of our progress,” Planned Parenthood said in a statement.
