NEWTON – A chemical leak occurred at the Newton Correctional Facility yesterday, resulting in over a dozen hospitalizations and an emergency response.

The Newton Fire Department and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office were reportedly dispatched to the facility at approximately 11:00 AM yesterday after there had been reports of several individuals becoming sick. Hazmat protocols were initiated and a total of 15 people, including inmates and staffers at the facility, were hospitalized.

Authorities have reported no deaths from the incident, and the cause of the chemical leak is currently under investigation.