Unknown substance - Shopping center evacuated with over 200 people
Due to an unknown substance, a shopping mall in Zella-Mehlis (Schmalkalden-Meiningen district) was evacuated on Tuesday. Between 200 and 300 people had to leave the building according to the police. The substance was discovered in the afternoon on a toilet in the Shopping Center. A 25-year-old woman and a 64-year-old man had reportedly suffered respiratory issues due to the substance. The shopping center was again accessible around 8 p.m.
The fire department on site was unable to determine the substance. They eventually took samples to examine further. The Police are investigating for negligent bodily harm.
The incident occurred in the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district, specifically in Zella-Mehlis' shopping mall. The police reported that the substance causing respiratory symptoms was found in the shopping center's toilet. Following the incident, the criminality unit of the police is investigating potential negligent bodily harm.
