Story perspectives

Fourteen Hospitalized After Toxic Smoke at Animal Shelter

9/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Fourteen staff members at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Billings, Montana, were hospitalized after toxic smoke filled the building during an FBI incineration of two pounds of methamphetamine.
A "negative air pressure issue" caused the smoke, prompting the evacuation of staff and 75 animals.
Shelter director Triniti Halverson, unaware of the burn, experienced smoke exposure symptoms.
Staff received treatment in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber for three hours, with some symptoms persisting.
Legal action against the FBI is being considered.

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Story summary

Fourteen staff members at Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Billings, Montana, were hospitalized after toxic smoke filled the building during an FBI incineration of two pounds of methamphetamine.
A "negative air pressure issue" caused the smoke, prompting the evacuation of staff and 75 animals.
Shelter director Triniti Halverson, unaware of the burn, experienced smoke exposure symptoms.
Staff received treatment in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber for three hours, with some symptoms persisting.
Legal action against the FBI is being considered.