(OCALA, FL.) July 14, 2026 – What began as a routine medical call escalated into a significant hazardous material response at Chewy’s Fulfillment Center located at 3380 NW 35th Avenue Road on Tuesday, July 14.
At approximately 7:58 a.m., Ocala Fire Rescue’s Rescue 1 arrived on scene to assist a person experiencing lightheadedness. While medics assessed the patient, a carbon monoxide alarm integrated into their medical equipment sounded, prompting an immediate investigation.
Officials initiated building evacuation protocols to ensure the safety of all personnel, while additional units were en route.
Engines 1 and 4, Tower 1, Squad 7, Rescue 4, Battalion Chief 11, and a Safety Officer arrived to identify the potential source of what was suspected to be a carbon monoxide leak. Fire crews used gas monitors throughout the extensive 600,000-square-foot facility and confirmed the presence of a toxic, odorless gas.
However, initial readings were inconclusive, prompting crews to investigate alternative causes. They identified the possibility of hydrogen off-gassing from forklift batteries, which can trigger similar alarm responses and symptoms. Firefighters then removed the forklifts from the building and began ventilating the facility, noting a decrease in the gas concentration per million on the gas monitor.
In total, six patients were assessed by medical teams, with only the first patient requiring transport to the hospital. The remaining five declined further treatment, and no additional injuries were reported.
Operations within the facility were paused for several hours as safety measures were enacted and conditions were cleared.
Ocala Police Department and Marion County Fire Rescue also responded.
