An investigation into a warehouse in Reedley, California, revealed a large-scale illegal medical lab complete with bioengineered mice, infectious agents, numerous refrigerators and freezers, and incubators. The inquiry was sparked by the discovery of a garden hose illicitly attached to a wall at the back of the building.
Inside the warehouse, thousands of vials were found, many containing bio-hazardous materials such as human blood, along with numerous unknown substances. Health officials from the Fresno County Department of Public Health discovered nearly 1,000 lab mice, 200 of which were dead.
According to court documents, official tests identified at least 20 potentially infectious viral, bacterial, and parasitic agents present in the lab, including E. coli, malaria, and the virus that causes COVID-19.
Over several weeks, materials were removed from the location by officials from local, state, and federal agencies. Despite the hazardous materials found, public safety was maintained throughout the entire operation due to quick and decisive action.
The owners of the illegal lab, operating under the name Prestige Biotech, have not provided clear information about the activities taking place within the building. Consequently, a criminal investigation is ongoing.
The discovery of this illegal lab raises serious concerns about public health and safety, and emphasizes the importance of vigilant oversight in the medical and bioengineering fields. As the investigation into Prestige Biotech continues, it is hoped that further information will be uncovered to prevent similar illegal operations in the future.