Pennsylvania State Police to look into incident involving insulin, glass contaminating shaved ice at school event
By Caitlyn Scott & Ed DiOrio
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FAIRCHANCE, Pennsylvania (WTAE) — A Fayette County school provided an update after warning parents shaved ice handed out during a trunk-or-treat event may have been contaminated with insulin and broken glass.
Albert Gallatin Area School District Superintendent Christopher Pegg said there appears to be no serious injuries or illnesses following Wednesday’s incident.
“We are thankful for our community and staff members who helped spread the word rapidly so parents would be able to have their child/children checked by medical professional if they were experiencing any adverse effects from consuming shaved ice,” Pegg said in the letter.
Mark Howard is the owner of Have An Ice Day Shaved Ice in Uniontown. His truck was at the event on Wednesday.
He released this statement on his Facebook page on Thursday.
“I want to sincerely apologize for an incident that occurred on Wednesday at AL Wilson Elementary where I was serving shaved ice. I understand that this situation may have caused concern. I am truly sorry for any worry or distress that anyone may have felt.
“During the event, while reloading one of my shaved ice machines with fresh ice, I heard an unusual sound almost immediately after the new batch went in. When I checked, I discovered that a small vial of insulin had gotten mixed in with the ice and briefly came into contact with the grinder.
“The moment I realized this, I stopped using that machine and took it out of service. From the time I reloaded the ice to the time I stopped serving, it was only a matter of minutes. Because of how quickly it was discovered and with how the machine operates, I did not believe there was any risk to anyone.
“Still, I immediately notified the school officials on site out of an abundance of caution and transparency. The affected machine was removed from operation right away. Service continued only from a second, unaffected machine. I take this matter very seriously and have already reviewed and strengthened procedures to ensure that something like this cannot happen again. My highest priority will always be the safety and well-being of the people I serve, and I remain fully committed to cooperating with any inquiries from the school district or local authorities.
“My wife and I started this business seven years ago with a simple goal — to bring smiles to families and children across our community. Since that time, I have been honored to work with schools, organizations, and families, serving tens of thousands of people throughout the region we call home. I’ve always taken great pride in maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and care in everything I do. I am truly very sorry that this happened.
“This business has always been built on trust, integrity, and community — and I will continue to uphold those values every day. Thank you to everyone who has shown kindness and entrusted us to contribute to your events over the years. Your support truly means the world to me.”
The school said the incident has been referred to Pennsylvania State Police, who will determine whether charges will be filed.
Pegg originally issued a statement Wednesday saying children and parents who attended “Trunk or Treat” at A.L. Wilson Elementary School on Wednesday evening may have been affected.
“If you or your children consumed any shaved ice and are experiencing any adverse effects, please seek immediate medical attention,” Pegg said in the statement.
Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 is working to learn more and will provide updates when available.
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