Pliny the Elder died there, trying to run ships across the sea to save people [0] from the eruption. He was asthmatic and succumbed to smoke inhalation.<p>But I think that informs the situation a little. The eruption was going on long enough that Plinius could show up, say &quot;pack up your household, let&#x27;s go&quot;, think about how things were going, disseminate orders to wear pillows on everyone&#x27;s heads to protect from falling rocks, and even take a bath [1].<p>[0] Well, maybe just his friends, but he was still a historian who mounted a rescue mission.<p>[1] which was likely because of an asthma attack and thinking the steam would help, but there is some thought it was to also demonstrate coolness under pressure and help prevent a panic in his charges.