Police investigate illness affecting Santa Barbara half-marathon runners

Hospital reports trigger inquiry

Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital told authorities about multiple participants seeking treatment for undetermined causes. Police opened an investigation after receiving these specific reports from the medical facility. The hospital noted a larger than expected number of emergency visits on that Sunday. Twenty-seven runners arrived at emergency rooms in Santa Barbara and Goleta by Monday morning. Of those patients, 24 had been treated and discharged as of Monday morning.

Organizers blame heat factors

Race organizers believe the illness stems from heat or dehydration during the event. The high temperature on race day reached 88F which is unusually high for this season. Event director David Monico said that 15 individuals were moved from the medical tent to nearby hospitals. Members of his group provided care to many athletes suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion along the track and near the finish area. The website stated that over 4,640 participants ran a route covering approximately 13 miles in the half-marathon.

Three patients remain stable

The remaining three patients were in stable condition as of Monday morning according to the company. So far, neither the hospital nor police have provided specifics on the symptoms other than describing them as unusual. Monico told the Guardian they have no additional information suggesting anything other than exertion-related symptoms caused the issues. Cottage Health confirmed the number of emergency visits was larger than expected for this specific race.