At least 15 individuals were transported to hospitals following a potential chemical exposure incident at the Newton Correctional Facility in central Iowa on Wednesday. The Newton Fire Department and Jasper County Sheriff’s Office responded to the facility around 12:30 p.m. after reports of a chemical exposure, according to WHO13.
"Emergency protocols were activated today at Newton Correctional Facility following a potential chemical exposure incident on-site," Iowa Department of Corrections Chief of Staff Paul Cornelius stated. As many as 15 people were taken to four hospitals across central Iowa, though the exact total remained unclear by Wednesday evening.
The condition of those affected is also not immediately known, nor is it confirmed whether the sickened individuals were inmates or employees. The cause and nature of the exposure are under active investigation, Cornelius added. "Out of an abundance of caution, the area has been secured, and relevant safety and emergency response procedures were implemented immediately."
Officials from UnityPoint Health reported that four individuals were taken to a hospital in Grinnell, and four others were transported to Iowa Methodist in Des Moines with non-life-threatening injuries. A spokesperson for MercyOne stated that nine additional patients were taken to medical facilities located between Des Moines and Newton.
Newtown Correctional Facility, which includes both maximum-security and medium-security facilities, is situated on approximately 1,500 acres south of Newton and houses around 1,000 inmates. Further updates are expected as verified information becomes available.