A sperm bank was cited two days after a Georgia deputy died inhaling liquid nitrogen while trying to save an employee, according to documents from the Georgia Department of Insurance.
Xytex sperm bank in Augusta was issued a cease and desist order for the tanks containing the liquid Tuesday following the death of Richmond County sheriff’s Sgt. Greg Meagher. According to authorities Meagher died Sunday trying to save sperm bank employee Anita Wylds after the tanks leaked.
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According to Channel 2 Action News, Xytex had permits to install the tanks, but the state fire marshal needed to do an inspection before they could be used.
"We have actually issued a cease and desist order for the tanks and the equipment not to be in operation, until which time they can be corrected and a final investigation be conducted,” Deputy State Fire Marshal Chris Stephens told Channel 2.
Investigators believe the spill set off the burglar alarm inside the sperm bank, the news station reported. Wylds went to shut off the valve off as Meagher and three other deputies went to save her.
Xytex said they are cooperating with authorities in the investigation.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and the friends of Sgt. Greg Meagher, his fellow deputies and our injured employee,” the company said in a statement.
Services for Meagher will be held noon Friday at the Church of the Most Holy Trinity on 720 Telfair Street in Augusta, according to a release from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. Visitation will be held Thursday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at King Funeral Home on 124 Davis Road.
The Police Benevolent Foundation started a memorial fund for Meagher's family.
Staff writer Lauren Foreman contributed to this story.
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