The Site involved the release of mercury in and around a high school in the District of Columbia. The release occurred on or about October 2, 2003 at the Ballou Senior High School, when a student entered an unlocked chemistry laboratory during regular school hours without permission and removed a flask containing at least 250 millitietrs (mL) of mercury. The mercury was spread among many students and to various areas of the school. Reportedly, the removed mercury was sold to a second student. The students were dimissed for the day without being inspected or screened. In addition to the school itself, numerous residences, one car, and a Metro bus were also comtaminated.
EPA conducted emergency removal action at the Site and provided assistance, technical expertise for sampling and screening, and public relations support to the District of Columbia (DC) Public Schools, the DC Department of Health, the DC Emergency Management Agency, and the DC Fire Department. Environmental and health risks were abated during the emergency removal action; the Site will not be scored for inclusion on the National Priorities List and no further action (other than enforcemetn action to recover EPA's costs) is expected in connection with the Site.