A break in safety locks resulted in the release of high quantities of gamma and neutron radiation directly exposed three workers and indirectly exposed as many as 310,000 other persons. The two persons who received the highest doses ultimatley succumbed due to the latent effects of the radiation on the skin and mucous membranes. Improved protection of workers and responders as well as dosimeters are needed in areas where such events may occur. Careful attention must be paid to providing accurate information to the media and to the provision of competent psychosocial support.