A gas explosion caused a large fire and resulted in two deaths in Northwest Houston. A huge blast occurred that was felt miles away from the industrial site. A blast so ferocious that it moved homes off their foundations. The accident that occurred at an industrial plant, killed two men that worked at the site. In addition, damages and injuries were reported in nearby communities. At least one person was transported to the hospital and 18 people went on their own to various hospitals with injuries related to the blast. Injuries from the blast included breathing issues and minor cuts and bruises.
The explosion, which occurred in the early morning hours, caused significant property damage to homes and businesses in the nearby area. Debris could be found as far away as two miles from the site. The explosion and fire flattened a large building located on the industrial site. Various chemicals were used in the company’s operations which were involved in the incident. As a result, the Houston Fire Department HazMat crews had to shut off valves to the chemicals before they could fight the fire.
How Dangerous Are Industrial Explosions?
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), is a law enforcement agency that is part of the U.S. Department of Justice. The ATF brought in their National Response Team of experts to evaluate the site and determine the cause of the blast. The team includes certified explosive specialists, certified fire investigators, forensic chemists, mappers, K-9 units, and a group of interviewers. Firefighters went to about 200 homes in the immediate area to make sure that the residents were not hurt.
The law requires companies that manufacture potentially dangerous chemicals to inform the public. However, companies that use or store chemicals as part of their manufacturing process are only required to inform employees. Not the public. The incident raises questions about how safe are communities from explosions.
Residents and others may feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods but are they really. In this case, damages were reported on hundreds of homes within miles of the blast site. Mayor Turner stated that the city will evaluate and assess the incident and try to mitigate the risk of future explosions.
If you are hurt or experience property damages or injuries due to an industrial explosion, it is very likely that the company whose operations are involved in the incident will be responsible for your expenses including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. You can also seek compensation for the repairs to your home. Walker Texas Lawyer has over 35 years of experience with such cases. He is experienced with chemical explosions and understands the investigations that need to be undertaken to prove fault. If you have been injured due to a plant explosion, call Walker Texas Lawyer today.
