'Respiratory Irritant' Substance Sent To Bank of America

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA -- A Bank of America branch in Lawrenceville was cleared by firefighters Wednesday after a hazardous substance that sent at least one person to the hospital was encountered.

Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services responded at about 1:30 p.m. Wednesday to a call to the Bank of America at 615 West Pike St.

Callers said several employees and customers at the bank were coughing and having trouble breathing after coming into contact with a bank deposit, according to a fire department news release.

Responders found the bank's workers and customers outside and began treating patients.

A total of 10 people were evaluated with respiratory problems. One patient was taken to Gwinnett Medical Center for treatment of non-life threatening symptoms.

After being exposed to fresh air for a few minutes, the other nine patients declined being taken to the hospital.

After using atmospheric monitors and other equipment, firefighters determined that the substance in the bank deposit was some sort of respiratory irritant.

They could not determine the exact substance.

Lawrenceville Police and bank representatives are reviewing surveillance video to try to determine how the irritant made its way into the building and if a crime was committed.