In a shocking discovery, an illegal medical lab was unearthed inside a warehouse in California, revealing a chilling operation involving deadly pathogens and diseased mice. The lab, operated by Prestige BioTech, a Nevada-based company not registered in California, was found to be working with at least 20 dangerous viruses, bacteria, and parasites, including COVID-19, E. Coli, malaria, HIV, hepatitis, and herpes.
The alarming findings came to light during a routine hose inspection conducted by the City of Reedley’s code enforcement team last December. The team noticed a green garden hose running through the abandoned property, which led them to investigate further. When they knocked on the warehouse door, they were taken aback to discover an active business operating without proper authorization.
In March, health officials carried out a thorough inspection of the premises and were horrified by what they found. The warehouse contained over 800 different chemicals stored in various bottles, with some unlabeled and categorized as “unknown chemicals.” Joe Prado, the Assistant Director of the Fresno County Department of Public Health, expressed his astonishment, stating, “I’ve never seen this in my 26-year career with the County of Fresno.”
The investigation revealed that the lab was using hundreds of diseased and bioengineered mice for experimentation, with approximately 200 of them already dead. Authorities also found vials containing infectious agents that were being handled without proper safety protocols. The workers at the lab claimed they were developing COVID and pregnancy tests, but suspicions were high due to the nature of the pathogens involved.
On July 7, officials took decisive action and destroyed the hazardous materials while euthanizing 773 of the surviving mice to prevent any further spread of infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted tests on the infectious agents, confirming their identities.
The lab’s operation raised serious concerns about public safety, and authorities accuse Prestige BioTech of failing to comply with orders, including providing plans for biological abatement and disposal of hazardous materials. As a result, a criminal investigation is ongoing, and the company could face severe consequences for its reckless actions.
Fresno City Councilman Garry Bredefeld expressed the city’s commitment to investigate any possible connections the lab might have within Fresno. Authorities are working diligently to ensure there is no risk to the public while clearing the warehouse and preparing for its demolition.
The discovery of such an illegal and dangerous operation has sent shockwaves through the community, emphasizing the importance of stringent oversight and compliance in the medical and research fields. It also serves as a warning to remain vigilant against unregistered and unauthorized establishments that could pose significant risks to public health and safety.
Sources By Agencies