Eight children from the French choir Chœur d’Enfants d’Île-de-France were hospitalized after experiencing seizure-like symptoms mid-performance at a Massachusetts church. The unsettling incident unfolded Tuesday evening at St. Paul’s Church in Cambridge while the children, ages 11 to 13, were delivering a free performance for the local community.
This alarming moment quickly escalated after one child reportedly became dizzy and had difficulty breathing, prompting immediate concern. Within minutes, multiple other choir members displayed the same symptoms, the New York Post reported.
Cambridge Fire Chief Thomas Cahill described the moment as highly unusual. “It was a routine medical call that quickly escalated into transporting eight children to the hospital. Not common,” he stated.
Emergency Response and Hazmat Sweep Yield No Clear Cause
Emergency crews arrived swiftly after the initial distress call. As symptoms spread among the children, responders called in a hazmat team to evaluate the area. Given the initial reports of a strange smell, authorities were concerned about a possible airborne toxin or environmental hazard.
However, after thoroughly sweeping the church, officials found no signs of chemical exposure or toxic substances. “No unusual smells were detected,” hazmat investigators confirmed.
Interestingly, none of the roughly 70 audience members in attendance reported symptoms, adding to the mystery surrounding the event. Many expressed confusion and concern for the young performers.