Chemical Spill in Beach Park Hospitalizes 37, 7 in Critical Condition

Photo Credit: User aker29 on Reddit

On Thursday morning at approximately 4:30 a.m., a major chemical spill in Beach Park, Illinois was reported. The massive spill resulted in the hospitalization of 37 people including 11 firefighters, a sheriff’s sergeant, and a sheriff’s deputy. Authorities in Beach Park confirmed that seven of the injured were listed in critical condition.

A preliminary investigation found that a leak coming from a container transporting the chemical anhydrous ammonia down Green Bay Road is the likely cause of the chemical spill in Beach Park.

Anhydrous ammonia is a colorless gas used in agriculture and cleaning industries. It is extremely dangerous, and can cause burns, blisters, breathing difficulties, and unconsciousness and even death when inhaled.

According to authorities on the scene, the spill created a plume of pungent chemical smoke that lingered for several hours. Responding officers were forced to retreat from the scene due to the overwhelming vapors and a lack of protective gear. Nearly two dozen law enforcement agencies responded to the chemical spill and were able to contain the leak within a few hours.

Residents within a mile radius of the spill were advised to remain indoors with their windows and doors closed and their air conditioners off, but the order was lifted at 10 a.m. once the anhydrous ammonia vapors dissipated.

Wexler Wallace litigates complex environmental contamination cases across the country, including PFAS contamination in Michigan. If you were harmed by the anhydrous ammonia chemical spill in Beach Park, contact Wexler Wallace to discuss your potential legal claim by submitting the form below