Sarasota Planned Parenthood clinic evacuated; 7 treated

Published: Updated:
(Carlos Munoz/Sarasota Herald-Tribune)

SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) – Florida authorities say cleaning supplies with improperly secured caps were the culprit behind an evacuation at a Florida Planned Parenthood clinic Monday.

Seven people were taken to a hospital for respiratory problems due to the fumes, said Sarasota County Fire spokesman Drew Winchester.

While investigating the source of the fumes, emergency workers also discovered some white powder and became concerned, Winchester said. He said it turned out to be baby food and that there will be no criminal investigation.

The clinic provides family planning services, preventive care, testing for sexually transmitted diseases, and abortions.

Planned Parenthood is a national target because of its role as the largest U.S. abortion provider. Last year, edited videos were released purporting to show Planned Parenthood selling fetal tissue for profit. The organization has denied the allegation.

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