Authorities in the coastal city of Santa Barbara, California, are investigating a series of incidents that left nearly 30 participants seeking medical attention at a half-marathon race held over the weekend. According to reports from local hospital Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital and police statements provided to CBS News, runners experienced "unusual symptoms" after completing the race on an abnormally hot day. The exact cause of these symptoms remains unknown.
In a statement issued to media outlets, Cottage Health, which operates the hospital, confirmed that it had received a larger-than-expected number of emergency visits from half-marathon participants. Police advised that while there is no specific public safety recommendation at this time, anyone feeling unwell should seek medical attention and follow guidance from healthcare professionals. As of Monday, 27 people had been treated for symptoms related to the race, with 24 having since been discharged in stable condition, leaving three still hospitalized.
One runner who was hospitalized told local news station KEYT-TV that they had lost consciousness during the race and could not recall parts of it. "It is awfully suspicious," said the anonymous runner, adding that some participants reported hallucinations. Event director David Monico confirmed to US media that 15 runners were transported from the medical tent to local hospitals due to dehydration and overheating.
The half-marathon took place on a warmer-than-usual day, with temperatures reaching 86F (27C) by midday - significantly higher than the typical early November temperature in the low 70s. The event attracted thousands of participants who ran along the Pacific Ocean. Further information and updates are expected from the Santa Barbara Police Department, Cottage Health, and half-marathon organizers following investigations into the unusual incidents.