City officials: Elementary school evacuated due to "unknown substance"
Dec 17, 2024
(MANITOU SPRINGS, Colo.) — Manitou Springs Elementary School was evacuated on Tuesday morning, Dec. 17 after an "unknown substance" was found in the school's gym, according to Cassandra Hessel, Public Information Officer for the City of Manitou Springs.
According to the City, the Manitou Springs Fire Department (MSFD) was originally called for an "inhalation incident of unknown cause," on Tuesday, and the Manitou Springs Police Department (MSPD) also responded to assist.
"MSFD confirms all students were evaluated with none needing to be transported for further evaluation," according to a press release from the City. The El Paso County Hazmat Team also responded to investigate the incident and to assist in identifying the substance.
Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia OnstottCourtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Lilia Onstott
Students and staff were taken to Manitou Springs High School, where parents are currently reuniting with their children.
According to Allison Scott, Communications Specialist for Manitou Springs School District 14 (MSSD14), "Manitou Springs Elementary School parents are asked to pick up their children as soon as possible," and listed the following information:
Arrival Instructions: Pull into the high school parking lot, [located at 401 El Monte Place], and follow the drive-through lanes.
Stay in Your Vehicle: A staff member will provide you with a form to complete. Once the form is returned, a staff member will bring your child to your vehicle.
Student Locations:
PK–2nd Grade: Auxiliary Gym (Jack Willie Gym)
3rd–5th Grade: Main Gym
The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released as updates become available.
FOX21 News has a crew on the way to the scene and will provide updates to this article once we get them.