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.
But I think that informs the situation a little. The eruption was going on long enough that Plinius could show up, say "pack up your household, let's go", think about how things were going, disseminate orders to wear pillows on everyone's heads to protect from falling rocks, and even take a bath [1].
[0] Well, maybe just his friends, but he was still a historian who mounted a rescue mission.
[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.
But I think that informs the situation a little. The eruption was going on long enough that Plinius could show up, say "pack up your household, let's go", think about how things were going, disseminate orders to wear pillows on everyone's heads to protect from falling rocks, and even take a bath [1].
[0] Well, maybe just his friends, but he was still a historian who mounted a rescue mission.
[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.