Odor prompts evacuation of FoodMaxx in Northwest Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Northwest Fresno grocery store is back open after it was evacuated and closed for several hours.

Firefighters responded to the FoodMaxx on Shaw Avenue near Feland Avenue just before 6 p.m. Sunday after people started complaining of an odor inside. Three people reported symptoms, including irritated throats and eyes.

The store was evacuated as a precaution, but crews were not able to detect any leak or unusual element. The store stayed closed for several more hours until it was cleared by county officials.

Fire crews believe the odor may have been from a personal pepper-spray container.