More than 60 people were sent to the hospital after suffering possible carbon monoxide poisoning at a Microtel Inn in Sutton, West Virginia. The reported carbon monoxide leak occurred early Sunday morning at the hotel, owned by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts. The leak was reported around 2 a.m., and the Gassaway Fire Department responded to the situation shortly after. The inn’s occupants were evacuated and evaluated, with dozens of people being transported to Braxton Memorial Hospital for potential carbon monoxide poisoning.
In total, 68 hotel occupants sought medical treatment, with three people reported in critical condition. The three individuals in critical condition were still hospitalized on the afternoon following the incident. While it was unclear what caused the possible gas leak, investigators were able to identify the source and resolve the issue. Fire marshals inspected the building to confirm safe levels, and the hotel has since reopened. Members of the Gassaway, Flatwoods, and Sutton Volunteer Fire Departments responded to the incident and assisted the fire marshal.
Representatives for the Microtel Inn confirmed that the hotel is open following the incident. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious occurrence that can result in severe health damage and death. It occurs when individuals breathe in carbon monoxide fumes, which are extremely toxic at high levels. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas produced when fuels like gasoline, kerosene, and coal burn. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include nausea, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, chest pain, fainting, mental confusion, blurred vision, and respiratory failure.
Carbon monoxide poisoning kills over 200 people and sends 20,000 individuals to emergency rooms annually in the United States. It is most common in winter months when there isn’t proper ventilation or when devices malfunction. While there were no reported deaths as of Sunday night following the incident at the Microtel Inn in Sutton, several people were in critical condition. Carbon monoxide poisoning can have serious consequences, and proper prevention measures should be taken to ensure the safety of individuals. Fire marshals and emergency responders play a crucial role in identifying and resolving such incidents to prevent further harm.
