UPDATE: 5.19.12
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Broward County authorities continue to investigate the unknown chemical that closed a terminal at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Sheriff's Fire Rescue spokesman Mike Jachles told The Associated Press Saturday that the source has not yet been confirmed, calling it an ongoing investigation. Airport spokesman Greg Meyer said earlier that it appeared to have been an aerosol can that exploded in someone's luggage.
Terminal two, which includes the Delta Air Lines concourse, was evacuated for about two hours Friday as hazardous materials technicians investigated. Five people were sent to the hospital with respiratory complaints, including three Transportation Security Administration agents and two passengers.
Airport officials say more than 1,000 passengers and 14 departing flights were delayed.
5.18.2012
A terminal at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has been reopened after an unknown chemical sent five people to the hospital with respiratory complaints.
Terminal two, which includes the Delta Air Lines concourse, was evacuated for about two hours Friday as hazardous materials technicians investigated what caused several people to become ill.
Broward County Sheriff Fire Rescue spokesman Mike Jachles says three Transportation Security Administration agents and two passengers were affected by the irritant.
Investigators collected air samples and determined it was safe for people to re-enter. More than 1,000 passengers have been delayed and several inbound flights were diverted to other airports.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation, though an airport spokesman says it appears an aerosol can discharged.
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