Mechanical Failure Prompts Emergency Response at Washington County Memorial Hospital

Potosi, Mo. (KFMO) - Emergency crews from across the region responded to Washington County Memorial Hospital Sunday morning after a mechanical failure caused smoke to fill the facility’s laboratory department.

The incident occurred shortly before 11 a.m. Hospital officials say all employees and patients are safe and accounted for.

Hospital CEO Michele Meyer says patient care remains the top priority, and patients have been transferred to other hospitals as a precaution.

Fire department personnel, along with a hazmat team, remain on scene assessing the extent of the damage and investigating the cause of the failure and resulting smoke.

Emergency responders from Washington, St. Francois, and Jefferson Counties assisted at the scene.

This is a developing story and KFMO B104 News will continue to bring you the latest as it becomes available.