8 Occidental Students Hospitalized After Campus Party (Update)

Updated: Seven of the eight extremely intoxicated people taken to hospitals early Sunday from a rave-style party at Occidental College have been released, a school spokesman told City News Service.

Occidental Director of Communications Jim Tranquada said the seven were treated and released and were in good health.

Previously: At least eight extremely intoxicated students were hospitalized early Sunday after they attended a rave-style party on campus, according to news reports.

The ABC7 television channel posted a video of the students being rushed to hospital, which can be viewed above.

The TV channel described the party as “Splatter Dance”—a “paint-themed” party that was held at Bell Field, where softball is played. The TV channel reported that Splatter Dance has taken place on campus for several years.

Party Had No Alcohol

ABC7 quoted Occidental College Director of Communications Jim Tranquada as saying that no alcohol was permitted at the party and that it was a “very orderly,” well-staffed event.

School authorities believe the students got drunk before arriving at the party, ABC7 reported.

City New Service reported that the party was scheduled to run until 2 a.m. and that it was shut down shortly after the students were taken ill.

Los Angeles Fire Department Spokesperson Eric Scott told Eagle Rock Patch that a large LAFD contingent was dispatched to the scene of the party on camps at 12:23 a.m. on Sunday. Eight students were evaluated for “possible alcohol intoxication,” Scott said, adding that they were transported to a local hospital.

Large Fire Contingent Responds

The LAFD contingent included three fire companies, nine rescue ambulances and three Emergency Medical Services captains. Personnel from on Colorado Boulevard and Fire Station 50 on York Boulevard participated in the rescue, Scott said.

It was the second time this month that Oxy students had been hospitalized in an alcohol-related incident.

On Oct. 8, at least four students were rushed to Glendale Adventist Hospital with symptoms of alcohol poisoning after an annual toga party organized by students.