Louisiana Chemical Plant Explosion Kills One, Injures at Least 77

"GEISMAR, La. -- A bomb-like explosion ignited a raging fire at the Williams Olefins chemical plant early Thursday, killing one man and injuring dozens as terrified workers sought shelter from the sprawling flames."

"At least 77 people were wounded, and three people remained in intensive care hours after the blast, which could be felt from miles away. State Police identified the man killed in the explosion as 29-year-old Zachary C. Green, of Hammond.

'It’s a sad day in Geismar,' Ascension Parish Sheriff Jeff Wiley said. 'It’s an industry that practices safety every second of every day, and regrettable things do happen.'

As authorities investigated the cause of the blast, Gov. Bobby Jindal said the plant would be held accountable if found responsible for the fire."

The Baton Rouge Advocate had the story June 13, 2013.

SEE ALSO:

Baton Rouge Advocate front page

"Cause of Fatal Geismar Plant Explosion Remains a Mystery" (New Orleans Times-Picayune)

New Orleans Times-Picayune front page

"Louisiana Officials: One Dead, at Least 75 Injured in Chemical Plant Blast" (CNN)

"1 Dead, 77 Hurt in Louisiana Chemical Plant Blast" (Tribune Newspapers)

"Explosion at Louisiana Chemical Plant Kills 1, Injures 73" (Reuters)

"1 Dead, 77 Injured in Explosion at Louisiana Chemical Plant; Cause Unknown" (AP)

"Louisiana Chemical Plant Explosion Kills One, Injures Dozens" (ENS)
 

Source: Baton Rouge Advocate, 06/14/2013