Bear spray incident at NYC hotel causes several injuries, evacuation

An incident involving bear spray led to multiple injuries and several guests being evacuated from a New York City hotel, police said.

The New York Police Department advised the public to avoid the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel near Broadway and Stone Street in lower Manhattan on the morning of Monday, June 29, according to the department's 8:39 a.m. X post. NYPD officers were "looking into the use of bear spray inside a hotel after a dispute," adding that "guests have been evacuated from inside the building," the post continued.

As a result of the spraying, seven people were hurt, and two were hospitalized, CBS News reported, citing the NYPD. Next, detectives will comb through surveillance footage to find the woman who they believe sprayed the chemicals into the hotel's HVAC system, according to the outlet.

Hilton Hotels told USA TODAY in an email that the affected DoubleTree is "independently owned and operated," therefore, the company is unable to comment on the hotel's behalf.

USA TODAY contacted the NYPD on June 29, but did not receive an immediate response.

What is bear spray?

Bear spray is a deterrent typically made of red pepper oil, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. When sprayed, it inflames the eyes and upper respiratory system, per the department.

The department also says users should "treat bear spray like a firearm," as the spray comes out at more than 70 mph and could cause permanent eye damage.

Additionally, the department also advises users to keep bear spray away from heat (120 degrees) and cold (-7 degrees). "In extreme heat, pressure can build until the canister explodes. In extreme cold, pressure may decrease so the canister may not spray properly," according to the department.

How is bear spray regulated?

The Environmental Protection Agency regulates bear spray as a pesticide in the United States.

Every can of bear spray outlines that it is a federal offense to use the product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. Since it is explicitly labeled "not for use on humans," spraying a person violates federal guidelines.

This story was updated to add new information.