Possible drug lab found in Van Nuys; 5 officers hospitalized

VAN NUYS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Five Los Angeles police officers are out of the hospital after finding a possible drug lab in Van Nuys.

Police responded to the 14800 block of Sherman Way around 10 p.m. Sunday for reports of a screaming man. When they arrived, they found the possible drug lab and a suspect. They arrested him after they say he came out of his bathroom naked, singing loudly.

The officers may have been exposed to chemicals and called 911.

"They were experiencing a burning sensation in their nostrils, they were feeling light headed, as well as having headaches once they exited the location," said Los Angeles police Capt. Ernie Eskriege.

A hazmat investigation is ongoing. It was initially believed that meth was being made at the location. Investigators now say that is not the case. They believe the suspect was in the process of making DMT.

The suspect was also hospitalized and has been taken into custody.

The suspect lived in the unit with his dog, according to neighbors. They say he rarely left his apartment, but they never thought a potentially dangerous drug lab could be just a few doors down from them.

"It surprised me, it shocked me, I'm still in disbelief that somebody so close to us is doing something like that," said one neighbor, who did not want to go on camera.

Residents have been allowed back in their homes after 24 units were evacuated. A portion of Sherman Way has reopened.