23 treated for exposure to noxious 'tear gas'

Fire officials said more than 20 people were treated early Friday after someone released a canister of pepper spray in the second-floor hallway of an apartment complex near Arlington Heights.

According to a release from Long Grove Fire Protection Chief Robert Turpel, the people treated included 11 firefighters, two police officers, seven adults and three minors. All were exposed to the tear gas or Mace-like substance. They suffered eye and throat irritation, coughing, and a burning sensation to the skin.

Turpel said firefighters were dispatched to 4121 Bonhill Drive in unincorporated Arlington Heights at 4:05 ap.m. for a reported structure fire. But when units arrived, no fire was discovered.

However, while examining the building, police and fire officials came into contact with the chemical.

Fire officials upgraded the alarm to bring in additional units for search and rescue, evacuation and emergency medical treatment as a precaution. In all, 11 different fire and law enforcement agencies responded.

Cook County Sheriff spokeswoman Penny Mateck said no one was taken to the hospital and, instead, all the victims were treated at the scene. She said the material can be dangerous if not treated immediately.

Mateck added the Cook County Bomb Squad was called in to dispose of the canister and help ventilate the building.

She said police are investigating the incident and that citations have not been issued.

Turpel said the six-unit apartment building has been deemed uninhabitable until it can be cleaned by an environmental services company, and the Red Cross has been contacted to assist the residents in finding shelter.

The incident remains under investigation by the Cook County Sheriff's Office and Long Grove fire officials.