Three Red Cross workers who responded to a suspected poisoning incident at the City Express by Marriott hotel in Heredia were taken to San Vicente de Paúl Hospital after showing symptoms of illness. The emergency took place on Saturday, following the death of a woman who had come into contact with a highly toxic substance. Eight other people were also transported to the hospital with signs of poisoning.
The Red Cross stated that the three affected rescuers are not in serious condition but are experiencing nausea and headaches. They are members of the San Isidro de Heredia committee and were transported by a unit from San Pablo.
According to information provided by the Red Cross, it appears that the chemical involved was aluminum phosphide, a powerful fumigant pesticide. This substance is believed to have caused the death of the hotel guest, as well as symptoms in eight others and the three Red Cross responders.
Luis Chaves, battalion chief for the Fire Department, said: “We responded to an emergency involving hazardous materials and have already evaluated the hotel so it can continue operating safely and normally for other guests.” He emphasized that “the emergency is now under control.”
When asked about the incident following confirmation of the guest’s death, whose identity and nationality have not been released, La Nación attempted to obtain a statement from hotel management. However, an employee identifying himself as an accountant said staff were not authorized to provide information.
Reiner Montero contributed reporting for this article.
