An entire hotel evacuated in the middle of the night and six people rushed to the hospital, as a result of a severe carbon monoxide leak discovered at the Hotel Raganelli on Rome's Via Aurelia. The alarm was activated at approximately 4:30 a.m. when several guests began to experience symptoms of illness, which may have been caused by gas poisoning.
The rescue was fast. Firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers arrived at the scene. Firefighters assessed 44 of the building's 46 rooms and discovered carbon monoxide amounts in different areas. As an extra precaution, it was decided to evacuate all hotel guests: during the night, a total of 96 people, including numerous tourists, were evacuated.
Firefighters, medical professionals, and police worked together to ensure that evacuation operations ran smoothly. Six hotel guests were transported to the hospital after experiencing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. A 118 emergency worker who arrived to provide help also reported symptoms of intoxication and required medical attention. Health authorities have determined that there is no cause for concern regarding the conditions of all hospitalized patients.
Investigators are presently examining the origin of the gas leak. Initial findings indicate that the hotel's boiler, which was promptly seized, was the main source of the chemicals. Technicians from the Chemical and Radiological Detection Center (CRRC) undertook extensive investigations to discover the source of the carbon monoxide. The Public Prosecutor's Office, which is closely following developments in the case, may shortly launch an investigation to identify possible liabilities. Meanwhile, the facility remains closed for the necessary technical tests to assure the safety of guests and employees.