The Hamilton County Health Department was evacuated on Thursday morning after a “suspicious odor” led to patients and employees reporting feelings of sickness and lightheadedness. Firefighters are currently investigating the source of the exposure, with nine patients being assessed. Reports came in around 9:45 am, prompting the evacuation of the building and the closure of East 3rd Street. The Chattanooga Police Department and Hamilton County Emergency Management secured the surrounding areas. Local media crews observed staff heading back inside the building, but it is unclear if other nearby buildings were also evacuated.
