McDonald’s evacuated after ‘gas cannister’ is let off in restaurant hospitalising several customers
Two teenagers were rushed to hospital suffering from abdominal pains and respiratory irritation following the "serious incident"
TWO teenagers were rushed to hospital after a gas canister was let off inside a McDonald's restaurant last night.
West Midlands Ambulance Service said a girl, 17, and an 18-year-old woman had been suffering from abdominal pains and respiratory irritation when they were taken to hospital in Stoke-on-Trent.
Twelve people needed medical treatment from paramedics at the scene - with three found to be suffering minor breathing difficulties following the "serious incident" at around 8.30pm on Monday night.
Today, Staffordshire Police confirmed that two 17-year-old boys and an 18-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of administering a noxious substance at the fast food chain on Eccleshall Road, Stafford.
An Ambulance Service spokesman said those inside the restaurant at the time complained of breathing difficulties and stomach problems.
They added: "Due to the number of patients affected and the type of incident, it was a protracted case which saw ambulance staff on scene for around four hours."
Staffordshire Police said in a statement: "An investigation into the incident is now under way and officers will continue inquiries at the scene today, including obtaining CCTV evidence, to establish the background to this incident.
"Colleagues from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have completed their investigation into this incident and there are no noxious substances in the building or surrounding area."
The three arrested are all from the local area, police have said.
Anyone with information about what happened is urged to call police on 101.
The restaurant has since reopened.