Police in Santa Barbara, California, launched an investigation after nearly 30 participants required medical attention following a half-marathon event held in the city on Sunday.
Unusual Symptoms and Hospital Treatment
According to a statement given to CBS News by local officers, authorities received a notification from Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital regarding race competitors seeking medical help for unusual symptoms after crossing the finish line. Police stated that the exact cause of the reported symptoms has not yet been confirmed.
Cottage Health, the organization operating the hospital, informed CBS that it experienced a larger volume of emergency room visits than anticipated from individuals who participated in the race. Cottage Hospital confirmed it treated a total of 27 runners from the half-marathon across emergency facilities in Santa Barbara and the adjacent city of Goleta.
Out of those treated, 24 individuals were released following medical care, while three remained hospitalized in stable condition as of Monday. Police advised that no specific action is currently recommended for the general public, though participants experiencing illness should consult medical professionals and follow their instructions.
Hot Weather and Runner Accounts
The race took place on an unusually warm November day in Santa Barbara along the Pacific Ocean, drawing several thousand runners. By midday, temperatures climbed to 86F (27C), significantly higher than the typical early November average of low 70s.
An anonymous runner who sought hospital treatment shared with local news outlet KEYT-TV that they lost consciousness and suffered memory loss regarding portions of the race. The runner described the situation as deeply suspicious, noting reports of hallucinations among participants. The competitor added that while unfamiliar with severe heat exhaustion, they had never witnessed anyone forgetting such a long stretch of a run.
David Monico, the event director, reported to US media that 15 people were transferred directly from the medical tent to local hospitals suffering from dehydration and overheating.
The BBC reached out to the Santa Barbara Police Department, Cottage Health, and event organizers for additional comments regarding the incident.
