Five people were hospitalized after a suspicious odor was detected at a Seekonk eatery.

Fire Captain Sandra Lowery says that at around 11:15 a.m. Friday fire crews were sent to the Panera Bread at 221 Highland Ave. after an employee called 9-1-1 reporting a strange odor.

Crews arrived on scene to find the building being evacuated.

18 patients were evaluated on scene for various medical issues.

Five people were transported to Rhode Island Hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

Mutual aid was provided by ambulance crews from Barrington, East Providence, Pawtucket, and Rehoboth.

Lowery says the incident remains under investigation and a cause hasn't yet been determined.

The restaurant has been closed until further notice.

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