LAX Terminal 8: 4 people sick, including 1 in serious condition, after reported carbon dioxide leak

LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Four people became immediately ill after a reported carbon dioxide leak at an LAX terminal on Monday morning, authorities said.

A hazardous materials team responded to the baggage claim area in Terminal 8 around 7 a.m. to investigate the problem, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Authorities said three people were in “slight distress” and a fourth person was in serious condition.

According to the LAFD, the source of the leak is believed to be a utility room in the area. The four individuals were all independent workers, three men and one woman, who were in or near the room at the time. Authorities said a popping sound was heard shortly before the escape.

One of the workers, a 50-year-old man, was found without a pulse in the room. Paramedics performed CPR and he was taken to hospital in critical condition.

“It is important to mention that this did not affect any of the medical travelers,” said LAFD Capt. Erik Scott. “They were not in an area near this electrical room, there was no passage where they could come into contact with the carbon dioxide.”

Out of an abundance of caution, officials said about 100 people were cleared from Terminal 8 during the investigation and were sent to Terminal 7 for screening.

Arriving United Airlines flights were temporarily halted, but the ground cover was lifted soon after.

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