Copyright 2004 The Associated Press
Pepper Spray Spurs New York Toy Store Evacuation
Several shoppers were hospitalized after the toy store was pepper sprayed Saturday.
NEW YORK (Nov. 28) - Police were reviewing video camera footage to find out who discharged pepper spray inside an elevator at Toys "R" Us crowded flagship store, sending at least three people to the hospital, authorities said.
Saturday's incident also left others with irritated eyes at the toy chain's Times Square store during the busy shopping weekend. About 80 firefighters and 40 to 50 police officers responded to the scene, acting Ninth Battalion Chief Mike Meyers said.
"I immediately could not breathe," Teresa Cassello told WNBC. "I said 'I have to get out of here 'cause I'm choking,' but there were so many people behind me that I couldn't get out."
Fire department officials said about 3,000 shoppers were evacuated. Firefighter Kevin Nolan said five people were taken to St. Vincent's Hospital and 17 others were treated at the scene or refused medical attention. Police said three people were taken to St. Vincent's and nine refused medical attention.
Two people were released from the hospital within hours while one remained for further treatment, hospital officials said.
"We knew something happened," said Juan Ramirez, whose wife was treated for burning eyes. "People were trying to go out."
Susan McLaughlin, a spokeswoman for Toys "R" Us, said the incident was under investigation but declined to elaborate. "We are cooperating fully with the police," she said.
The 110,000-square-foot store, which opened in 2001, features an 60-foot indoor Ferris wheel.
11-28-04 08:14 EST
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Pepper spray!
