Scripps Research Institute Evacuated After Lab Fire

Last Updated: Thu, Nov 20th, 2008

A small chemical explosion and minor fire in a laboratory at the Scripps Research Institute in Torrey Pines prompted a precautionary evacuation of the building today. The non-injury accident occurred shortly before 9:30 a.m., according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. The six researchers present at the time of the mishap in the fourth-floor lab were able to put out the resulting blaze with fire extinguishers, SDFRD spokesman Maurice Luque said. The roughly 50 occupants of the structure were then directed outdoors as a precaution, he said. Hazardous-materials personnel were sent to the scene to determine if the accident, which involved a "highly corrosive" chemical, resulted in any lingering health hazards inside the North Torrey Pines Road complex, Luque said.

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