Mystery Odour Sparks Evacuation and Respiratory Issues in Pas de la Casa Apartment

Firefighters mobilised two units, a truck, and an ambulance to an apartment building in Pas de la Casa early this morning after residents reported coughing, breathing difficulties, and a strong unidentified odour that prompted a full evacuation.

The alert came shortly after midnight at a block on Carrer de la Solana, which was crowded with groups of young holidaymakers over Holy Week. Tenants, especially on the third floor, first detected the smell and developed uncontrollable coughing and respiratory issues, leading them to exit the building. With several people affected, they contacted emergency services.

Police and fire crews arrived around 12:45am. Responders who entered the property suffered similar symptoms, including coughing. Firefighters used gas detectors, which gave negative readings and failed to identify the substance, though they ruled out any toxic danger—describing it only as an irritant.

As a precaution, crews ventilated the building by opening windows, restoring normal conditions and allowing residents to return to their rooms. The ambulance was not needed. No serious injuries occurred, with just one young woman receiving treatment at the local health centre on her own initiative.

Authorities continue to investigate the odour's source, with no further details released. The incident caused a brief scare but resolved without lasting impact.