Pepper-Spray In Vents Hurts 53 Elderly

Fifty-three elderly residents of an apartment complex in Manhattan were injured on Saturday when someone discharged pepper spray into an air-conditioning unit in a dining room.

The residents, who were about to eat lunch, began coughing and wheezing as the powerful irritant circulated, Capt. Ellen Scibelli of the Emergency Medical Service said.

The victims suffered minor throat irritation and tightness in the chest, she said. Five residents were taken to hospitals and the others were treated in the courtyard and lobby of the 20-story red brick building.