In Brief : OHIO : Entire Town Routed by Ammonia Leak

The entire population of Wellston, Ohio--7,500 people--was ordered evacuated after a pizza plant leaked deadly ammonia. About 50 people were hospitalized, most overcome with fumes, but the severity of their injuries was not immediately determined. The anhydrous ammonia leak at the Pillsbury Co. Jeno’s plant was brought under control by midnight. Police originally ordered the evacuation of 500 to 1,000 residents living in a seven-block area near the plant, but expanded the order to cover the entire city, said Highway Patrol Dispatcher Jack Riley. Anhydrous ammonia can be fatal if inhaled.