Sherman Oaks Galleria Odor Triggers Hazmat Investigation

SHERMAN OAKS, CA — An unknown odor at the Sherman Oaks Galleria sent one person to the hospital Monday and triggered a hazardous materials investigation.

Several people reported suffering symptoms such as watery eyes and scratchy throats, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Firefighters were called to the mall at about 9:15 a.m. Monday in the 15300 block of West Ventura Boulevard.

"Firefighters responded to complaints of an odor in a building and multiple patients with minor symptoms. A total of six patients had minor medical complaints, such as watery eyes, scratchy throat, etc," said LAFD spokesman Nicholas Prange. "One patient was transported and 5 others declined transport after a medical assessment by Paramedics."

According to Prange, LAFD hazmat specialists are testing the atmosphere inside with air monitoring equipment.

Initial readings did not show any significant health hazards, he said.