California police investigate after 27 fall ill at half-marathon running event

Police in Santa Barbara, California, are investigating an incident that occurred during a half-marathon running event on Sunday. Nearly 30 participants sought medical attention at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital "for unusual symptoms" after the race concluded. The cause of the reported symptoms has not been confirmed. The hospital, operated by Cottage Health, reported a higher-than-expected number of emergency visits from participants who ran the race.

While 24 of the 27 affected individuals were discharged following treatment, three remain in stable condition in the hospital as of Monday. Several thousand runners completed the half marathon on a hotter-than-usual day in Santa Barbara, with temperatures reaching 86F (27C) by midday. One participant, who declined to be identified, reported losing consciousness and experiencing memory loss during the race, describing the situation as "awfully suspicious."

Additionally, 15 runners were taken from the medical tent to local hospitals due to dehydration and overheating. The Santa Barbara Police Department, Cottage Health, and half marathon organizers have been contacted for further information.