San Diego
A chemical spill at a downtown dry-cleaning plant injured the owner and a worker Friday and prompted the shop’s evacuation, the San Diego Fire Department reported.
Michael Valenzuela, 32, the owner, suffered serious burns to his face and upper body when he was splashed with industrial strength ammonia at the Continental Cleaners & Laundry in the 400 block of 10th Avenue, Fire Department spokesman Jon MacDonald said.
Valenzuela is in serious condition at UCSD Medical Center burn unit.
An unidentified employee was treated after suffering eye irritation. Ten employees and some customers were evacuated because of the chemical’s fumes, MacDonald said, adding that there were no other injuries.
Fire investigators found two open gallons of industrial strength ammonia and are seeking the cause of the spill.
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