Emergency services responded to a serious chemical incident at a residential address on Wren Road, Dagenham, on the evening of August 10, 2024. The incident was triggered by exposure to palytoxin, a dangerous substance released from coral in a fish tank.

At approximately 10:09 PM, a call was received reporting multiple individuals experiencing respiratory problems at the address. The London Ambulance Service (LAS), including its Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), was dispatched to the scene, along with other emergency services.

Upon arrival, responders confirmed the presence of palytoxin, a potent marine toxin that can be released from certain species of coral, classifying the situation as a Hazmat incident. Five individuals at the scene were reported to be suffering from respiratory distress as a result of exposure to the toxin.

Palytoxin is known to be one of the most toxic non-protein substances in nature, and even minimal exposure can lead to severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, and in extreme cases, death.

The affected individuals are currently receiving medical treatment, and the scene has been secured to prevent further exposure. Authorities are urging residents in the area to remain cautious and avoid the vicinity of the incident.

We have approached the Met Police, London Ambulance Service and the London Fire Brigade for comment.

A London Ambulance Service spokesperson said:

“We were called at 9.46pm on 10 August to reports of an incident at a residential address on Wren Road.

“We sent a number of resources including ambulance crews, an incident response officer and members of our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART).”

“We responded alongside colleagues from London Fire Brigade.

“We treated seven patients and took them all to hospital.”

A Spokesman for the Met Police said Officers were called to a residential property on Wren Road, Dagenham at about 22:00hrs on Saturday, 11 August following reports of a chemical incident.
Police, LAS and LFB attended.
Seven people were treated at the scene and taken to hospital after being exposed to a chemical substance. They sustained minor respiratory issues.
Officers assisted with road closures at the scene. These were reopened shortly before 00:00hrs.