Dozens evacuated, treated by medical staff after bear mace used at Antioch Hobby Lobby, police say

ANTIOCH, Calif. -- At least 69 people were seen or treated by medical staff Wednesday after a hazardous materials spill at Hobby Lobby in Antioch, according to the Contra Costa Fire Protection District.

First responders from Con Fire responded to a call around 2:50 p.m. at the craft store on Lone Tree Way, the agency said. An employee called first responders after the substance was released at the front of the store.

Antioch police said that officers arrived on the scene and learned an unknown male subject deployed bear mace inside the store after being asked to leave. Three people were directly exposed and out of an abundance of caution they were transported to the local hospital.

The rest of staff and customers were escorted out the store so fire and hazmat could de-contaminate the store.

The materials released into the air caused skin irritations, watery eyes and respiratory distress for some people.

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