The incident in 900 N. Madison Street on Friday July 14th, 2023, involving a carbon monoxide leak, sent shockwaves through the Wilmington community as emergency response teams sprang into action. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be life-threatening if inhaled in high concentrations.
Just before 12:30 Friday afternoon a carbon monoxide alerted the Wilmington Fire Department to carbon monoxide leak inside a residence in the 900 block of North Madison. On arrival, Battalion Chief of District 1 assumed Command of a three-story multiple-residence structure.
Firefighters immediately began searching the building and were confronted with carbon monoxide readings exceeding 500 parts per million (ppm), a level that poses a serious risk to human health.
The efforts of the fire department led to the discovery of nine individuals requiring immediate medical attention. Among the patients, six were children who were transported to A.I. DuPont Hospital. Additionally, two adults were taken to Wilmington Hospital for treatment. Oe patient refused further medical assistance.
The response to the incident involved the utilization of nine St. Francis ambulances and multiple New Castle County paramedics. Approximately 48 fire and EMS personnel were involved in the operation.
The source of the carbon monoxide leak was determined to be a gas-powered pressure washer being operated in the basement of the building officials said. The entire residence was ventilated and cleared of the deadly gas.
In response to the incident, the Wilmington Fire Marshals are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause. The scene has been turned over to the City of Wilmington’s License and Inspection Department for further assessment.
The status of the patients remains unknown at this time.