Amazon Distribution Center Evacuated In Riverside County

EASTVALE, CA — Exposure to reportedly noxious fumes left one person ill and prompted the evacuation of more than 200 people from an Amazon distribution center in Eastvale Friday.

The hazardous materials emergency was reported about 9 a.m. in the warehousing district in the 5200 block of Goodman Road, just south of Cantu- Galleano Ranch Road and a quarter-mile west of Interstate 15, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said county and Corona Fire Department crews were sent to the location, from which 249 employees were evacuated as a safety precaution.

Five people complained of exposure-related illnesses, but only one required treatment by paramedics and was taken to a hospital for evaluation, officials said.

A hazardous materials team eventually identified the source of the fumes as a piece of equipment emitting exhaust from a refrigerated space within the warehouse, according to the fire department. It was unclear whether the equipment was faulty.

The evacuation was lifted about 1 p.m.