Authorities in Santa Barbara, California, are investigating after 27 runners were treated in hospital following a half-marathon on Sunday, November 8. Police said they were looking into the incident because of the 'unusual symptoms' reported by those affected.
The 13.1-mile event saw thousands of participants, with more than 4,640 people completing the run. Maximum temperatures on the day reached 31.1C.
Hospital reports surge in emergency visits
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital said it had a 'larger than expected number of emergency visits … a number of them with similar symptoms of undetermined cause'. Police said in a statement that 'the cause of the reported symptoms has not been confirmed'.
One runner treated in hospital told local news outlet KEYT-TV that they had lost consciousness and could not remember parts of the race. "It is awfully suspicious," said the runner, who declined to be identified. "We had people saying they were hallucinating. I am not too familiar with heat exhaustion but I have never seen anyone not remembering a long portion of their run."
Organisers attribute issues to exertion
Race organisers have reportedly said that heat was to blame, while authorities have declined to outline what they think was responsible. Event director David Monico said organisers transported 15 people from the medical tent to local hospitals, with many more being treated for dehydration and overheating.
Monico said there was 'no additional information to suggest that the issues some of the participants experienced were caused by anything other than endurance event exertion-related symptoms'.
Most runners discharged
Police said: "There is no specific action recommended for the public at this time; however, participants who feel unwell should seek medical attention and follow guidance from healthcare professionals."
As of Monday morning, 24 of the 27 people seeking hospital treatment had been discharged.
