The race, which saw 7,500 registered participants, began at 7 a.m. on Cabrillo Bouelvard at Yanonali Street and continued through 11 a.m.
Participants seeking medical treatment arrived at Santa Barbara and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospitals by ambulance, through self-transportation, or as walk-ins, according to Noozhawk. Cottage Health confirmed that 19 participants arrived at Cottage EDs, a larger than expected
number of emergency visits linked to the run.
Health officials and hospital staff are currently working to determine whether the illnesses were directly caused by the heat or if other factors were involved. While the exact nature of the symptoms remains under review, medical reports collected by event organizers indicated that the conditions appeared consistent with heat or marathon-related exhaustion.
The Santa Barbara Police Department has launched an investigation into the matter. Lt. Ethan Ragsdale confirmed that the department is actively looking into the reports of runners who sought medical treatment for unusual symptoms
after the event ended.
🚨 19 runners sought hospital care following Sunday’s Santa Barbara Half Marathon, according to local fire officials. • Emergency crews responded along the route between 940AM and 1045AM PST.⁰• Fifteen runners were transported to hospitals, and four went on their own.⁰•… pic.twitter.com/A8tdofPPob
As of Sunday evening, authorities noted that the specific cause of the reported symptoms had not been confirmed. Police officials have stated that there is no specific action recommended for the general public at this time, though they advise any participants who feel unwell to seek medical attention.
Sunday’s event occurred during a warm day in the region, with temperatures reaching a high of 86 degrees. Event Director David Monico noted that while the number of transports was higher than in previous years, this may be attributed to the warmer weather and an increase in the total number of participants compared to past races.
In years past, we've had overcast skies or less warm temperatures this time of year, so we have not had this many transports, but there's always a handful,
Monico said.
He added that the organization is cooperating with the police, noting: There was a lot that has been said on social media and was circulated, and so (the police are) doing their due diligence to see if there's any facts and truth behind it.
Hearing reports of 10-20 runners experiencing medical emergencies at today’s Santa Barbara Half Marathon. Heard an aid station might have had spiked or poisoned water. Lots of sherrifs cars outside cottage hospital, health department as well. Anyone have any news or idea?… pic.twitter.com/BLSayqn6Ck
Monico stated: That is not to diminish the severity of an individual being taken to a hospital.
Organizers emphasized that their primary goal is the safety of the runners. Anyone with additional information or participants who experienced unusual symptoms are asked to contact Santa Barbara Police Sergeant Andre Miller at 805-897-2330.