Several students had minor injuries when a chemistry class experiment went wrong at E.E. Smith High School, officials said.
Two substances mixed and heated on a hot plate caused a small explosion that filled part of the school with smoke, authorities said.
Ron Lewis, a battalion commander with the Fayetteville Fire Department, said the experiment involved potassium nitrate.
Several students are being treated for injuries, but their conditions are unknown. Three have been taken to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center for further treatment and evaluation, Lewis said in a release. The school was evacuated as a precaution.
Firefighters and a hazardous materials team responded to the school. The incident happened around 2:45 p.m. at the school at 1800 Seabrook Road.
Students were being dismissed as usual this afternoon.
The incident has been contained and hazardous materials crews remain at the school to decontaminate the area, Lewis said.
Seabrook Road is blocked at Topeka Street and at Albany Street.
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
