Monday, April 21, 2014

Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Press Release


Worcester County Sheriff’s Office

On 04/20/2014 at approximately 1530 hours, the Worcester County Sheriff's Office Deputies responded to a residence on Grays Corner Rd, Berlin, Worcester County, Maryland for an assist EMS call.  Upon arrival, Deputies learned that Anna Harbeson had been inside of her residence cleaning the bathroom.  While cleaning the bathroom, Ms. Harbeson had possibly mixed two bathroom cleaners and then became sick and had trouble breathing. Ms. Harbeson became unconscious. Mr. Harbeson began CPR and called EMS. Ms. Harbeson was transported to ed Atlantic General Hospital and was pronounced dead.

The investigation revealed that Ms. Harbeson had mixed bleach and "The Works" bathroom cleaner together. 

 During a search of the residence, investigators were able to locate both "The Works" cleaner and the bleach in the bathroom.  Both of these cleaning agents were found to have instructions on the back advising never to mix the agents with one another.
 
  The Office of Chief Medical Examiner was contacted and Ms. Harbeson was transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.
 
Investigators contacted the poison control center and learned that these two cleaning agents create chlorine gas if mixed, which can be very toxic and dangerous to lung and lung tissue.
 
Always read the product’s instructions. Never mix products. Always work in a well ventilated area.
 
Lt. Edward C. Schreier
Worcester County Sheriff’s Office
 
 

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