Chemical Mix-Up Forces High School Evacuation: Students Safe

A chemical mix-up at Maricopa High School triggered a significant emergency response this morning, marking an eventful third day of the school year.

Firefighters arrived at the school around 8 a.m. in response to a reported structure fire. However, they quickly determined there was no actual fire, confirmed Monica Williams, the city’s public safety spokesperson.

“An alarm was triggered in a science classroom,” Williams stated. “We have now determined that to be from two chemicals mixing in a sealed mixing container.”

The malfunction was identified as a “malfunctioning hood/exhaust system,” according to Maricopa Unified School District’s Director of Communications, Mishell Terry, in an email.

“The fire department swiftly responded and has cleared the building for reentry,” Terry continued. “All students and staff are safe, and normal school activities have resumed.”

Students in the 100 building were evacuated for about 30 minutes before being allowed to return inside.

“We appreciate the swift action of the fire department and the cooperation of our students and staff,” Terry noted.

The Maricopa Fire and Medical Department also called in a hazmat team to assist in handling the chemicals.