Hillsville, VA – More than 50 employees of a large produce company in Hillsville are being treated for possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Twin County 911 received a call Tuesday afternoon around 1 p.m. When rescuers and law enforcement arrived many employees were outside the building complaining of headaches, nausea, dizziness and trouble breathing.
More than 50 people were taken to Twin County Regional Hospital, Northern Hospital of Surry County and Wythe County Community Hospital. At least three people were flown to Duke Hospital for treatment. A law enforcement source tells WDBJ7 that some were taken by ambulance, some by police car and some by bus.
Fire, rescue and police units are still working to determine what type of gas may be responsible.
The owner of Virginia Produce Company, Moir Beamer, spoke with WDBJ7 reporter Orlando Salinas on Tuesday afternoon. Beamer said he believes the problem started somewhere in the packing area of the building.
Virginia Produce is one of the largest produce companies in the commonwealth. It’s located at 227 Industrial Park Drive in Hillsville.