Police launch investigation after 25 California Half Marathon runners rushed to hospital with mystery illness
Roughly 7,500 people participated in the event, which spanned 13.1 miles along the Pacific Ocean
A police investigation has been launched after at least 25 participants in the Santa Barbara Half Marathon were rushed to hospital with unexplained symptoms on Sunday, according to the Santa Barbara Police Department. The unusual symptoms prompted Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital to report a larger-than-expected number of emergency visits, with 25 individuals presenting similar undetermined symptoms.
Cottage Health, the hospital chain, confirmed the incident on Monday, stating that 25 runners arrived at their Santa Barbara and Goleta emergency rooms, with 18 subsequently discharged in stable condition. The remaining individuals were also reported to be stable. The race organizers attribute any potential illness to heat or dehydration.
The unusually warm weather in Santa Barbara, with temperatures reaching 80°F (27°C) by 10 a.m., is noted as potentially contributing to the health concerns. Race director David Monico confirmed that 15 runners were taken from the medical tent to local hospitals, and that dehydration and overheating were the main issues treated by the medical team.
Monico emphasized that the symptoms were within the norm for a half marathon or marathon, with no unusual conditions reported.
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