Freon leak sends three to hospital in Valley Stream

A freon leak at Rockaway Avenue apartment sent three people to the hospital Wednesday morning.

Nassau County Police and the Valley Stream Fire Department responded to an apartment above Mitchell's restaurant about 7:30 a.m. after four people were complaining of respiratory problems and a scratchy feeling in their throats. Three were transported to Mercy Hospital where they were treated and released. The fourth refused medical attention.

Valley Stream Fire Chief Joseph Fernandez said Nassau County Haz-Mat was called and took readings, which turned up low levels of freon. It is believed that there was a leak in a window air conditioning unit, Fernandez said.

Fernandez also said that there was an exterminator at Mitchell's early in the morning, but it was determined that the chemicals used did not factor in this incident.

A police officer who entered the apartment also reported a scratchy throat feeling, but declined medical treatment.