Investigation into Passaic, NJ carbon monoxide that killed 2, sickened 12

PASSAIC (WABC) -- Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of carbon monoxide poisoning that left two people dead and a dozen others sickened in Passaic, New Jersey.

Firefighters first arrived to the industrial building, described as a refuge for local musicians, on 61 Willet Street shortly after 2:00 on Saturday afternoon.

39-year-old Noel Korman and 29-year-old Alice Park, both of Clifton, were discovered dead on the second floor of a recording studio from apparent carbon monoxide poisoning.

"I've been here for 6, 7 years I've never had any problems," said musician Chris Dellisanti, "this is tragic."

Witnesses say they quickly knocked down the doors in different units at Streets Rehearsal Studio and told everyone inside to get out and get medical treatment.

12 people were inside at the time of the incident. Passaic Mayor Alex Blanco said they "experienced confusion and were choking" as they tried to leave the mixed-use commercial building.

They were taken to three different hospitals in the area with carbon monoxide symptoms and exposure. All have since been treated and released.

Hazmat crews and ambulances from neighboring communities also responded to the scene.

Witnesses say the renovated building is used by many local musicians to practice, record and store their instruments. Several musicians were inside as the Carbon monoxide reached toxic levels.

The names of the victims have not yet been released, and the source of the carbon monoxide is still under investigation.

PSEG is also assisting in the investigation. The building will be shut down for now depending on how long the investigation takes, and whether the building is deemed safe.