Lawrence, MA (April 25, 2026) – Emergency units responded to a reported medical gas leak on Wednesday morning, April 22, at a veterinary hospital on Wintrop Avenue in Lawrence. The call came in around 11:35 a.m. after a strong odor of medical gas, believed to be anesthesia, was detected inside the building.
Lawrence Fire arrived on scene shortly after and requested additional support, including an extra engine, as crews assessed the situation. Lawrence General EMS also dispatched multiple ambulances in response.
By 12:00 p.m., mutual aid assistance was requested due to reports of multiple people showing symptoms. Medical crews evaluated three individuals at the scene, all of whom declined further treatment.
By 12:17 p.m., emergency units cleared the scene after conditions were brought under control. No additional injuries were reported.
The incident remains under review by officials.
Our thoughts are with those affected as they continue to recover.
What Happens During a Medical Gas Leak Response
When a medical gas leak is reported, emergency crews focus on identifying the source and ensuring the building is safe to enter. Some medical gases, including anesthetics, can cause dizziness, headaches, or other symptoms if inhaled in concentrated amounts.
Fire and EMS teams often ventilate the building and monitor air quality before allowing normal operations to resume. Patients or staff who report symptoms are typically evaluated on-site to determine if further medical care is needed. Once conditions are deemed safe, crews clear the scene and restore normal access to the facility.
