The explosion wreaked havoc on nearby homes and local businesses with accounts of roofs caving in, windows shattering, and one apartment building being completely stripped of windows and walls.
West, Texas is a small town of only about 2,800 and after the plant’s explosion about half of the residents were evacuated including 133 nursing home residents.
According to witnesses a fire broke out at the plant on Thursday evening and around 7:50p.m a large, deafening, explosion occurred. The explosion charred the entire fertilizer plant and a plume of smoke covered the area. Officials say approximately 50 to 60 homes within a five block radius were damaged by the explosion which measured as a 2.1-magnitude seismic event.
Early Thursday morning after the fire was controlled, rains and heavy wind dissipated chemicals that had been released into the air but it is important to note that coming into contact with anhydrous ammonia, which the plant carried 54,000 pounds of, could cause chemical burns. If a person is exposed to high concentrations of anhydrous ammonia it could be deadly. Many people are already being treated for other injuries such as broken bones, burns, and lacerations.
In 2006 the company was investigated after complaints of a strong ammonia smell were reported and was fined for failing to have an adequate risk management plan that same year.
Authorities are still searching the area for survivors and injured residents. State authorities have started to investigate the explosion along with assistance from the federal government.
If you or a loved one has been seriously, or fatally, injured in an accident at the hands of a negligent party, the victim may be entitled to compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and more. A Texas personal injury lawyer can provide comprehensive legal guidance and help you determine if you are eligible to make a claim.
For additional information on personal injuries and what your legal rights may be visit www.edwardslawok.com.
About The Edwards Law Firm
The Edwards Law Firm serves clients throughout the state of Oklahoma. With offices located in McAlester and Tulsa Oklahoma, our personal injury lawyers are dedicated to fighting for justice for injury and accident victims. We believe that every person deserves access to top legal counsel, regardless of their financial situation. Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential case evaluation.
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