Deputies Evacuate Gaston Residents after Man Overcome by Chemicals

Washington Co. Sheriff's Office - 12/24/18 

On Monday, December 24, 2018, at 5:04 a.m., Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to assist Gaston Fire at the Riverside Apartments at 98 2nd Street in Gaston. A woman located a man down in his apartment.

A Forest Grove Police officer was the first to arrive and found a man overcome by a strong chemical smell. The officer dragged that man to safety, where he could be evaluated by medical personnel. The 55-year-old patient was chemically decontaminated and then transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Deputies quickly began notifying and evacuating residents from the apartment building and surrounding area.

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue’s Hazardous Materials Response Team responded to assess the situation. The Metropolitan Explosives Disposal Unit also responded out of an abundance of caution.

After an investigation, the origin of the chemical smell could not be determined and nothing hazardous was located.

At 8:30 a.m., fire officials determined it was safe for residents to return home.

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