Chimney Blamed for Carbon Monoxide
 A partially blocked chimney is being blamed for a carbon monoxide poisoning that sickened 34 members of the historic Hessel Valley Lutheran Church in the Warren County community of Chandlers Valley. It happened during Sunday worship service. Most of the victims, both children and adults, had relatively mild symptoms including headaches and nausea. CLICK FOR VIDEO And even four victims flown to a Pittsburgh hospital responded well to treatment. Only two of them were still hospitalized today. Today crews looked at the natural gas furnace and chimney and determined the chimney was partially blocked with debris. The blockage allowed carbon monoxide fumes to seep into the church and the fellowship hall. Victims say it was scary. Victim and longtime church member Verne Ekdahl said, "It is frightening. It really is." |