Shoppers at an event in Honolulu were forced to evacuate after what appeared to be a chemical irritant, possibly pepper spray, was released in a crowded vendor area.

• People suddenly started coughing and fleeing the area, prompting a 911 call and a response from firefighters, police, and EMS.
• One shopper said she was browsing vendors when the crowd reversed direction, and walking into the area made her start coughing too.
• Someone at the scene suggested pepper spray had been set off, but officials have not confirmed the cause.
• No injuries have been confirmed yet.

Outlook: Authorities are expected to release more details on the cause and whether anyone was hurt as the investigation continues.