Police in Santa Barbara, California, opened an investigation after the Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital reported that almost 30 runners from the Sunday half‑marathon were seeking medical care for “unusual symptoms.” The hospital said it had seen a larger‑than‑expected number of emergency visits, many with similar, undetermined complaints.
More than 4,640 athletes competed in the 13‑mile race, which took place on a day when temperatures reached 88 °F (31.1 °C)—an unusually high heat for November. Organizers attribute the illnesses to heat or dehydration, noting that the event’s medical team treated numerous runners for overheating and fluid loss both on the course and at the finish line.
According to the Santa Barbara Police Department, 27 participants were brought to emergency rooms in Santa Barbara and nearby Goleta. As of Monday morning, 24 had been treated and discharged, while three remained in stable condition.
Event director David Monico said the medical tent transported 15 runners to local hospitals. He added that there was no evidence the symptoms were caused by anything other than endurance‑event exertion.
Source: The Guardian World
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