On Friday, January 24, 2020, an explosion at Watson Grinding and Manufacturing killed two employees at the plant and sent two more people to the hospital for their injuries. Another 18 people went to the hospital on their own, seeking care after the blast affected surrounding neighborhood residents. Houston Mayor, Sylvester Turner, stated that none of the injuries of those who sought self-care were life-threatening.
Since Friday, one of the deceased employee’s family members has filed a wrongful death suit against the company for their loss.
What Caused the Houston Plant Explosion?
While the exact cause of the explosion is unknown, the Houston Fire Department listed gas propylene tanks as being onsite and involved in the blast, which damaged 214 surrounding homes, fully destroying 50. A total of 450 structures have reported damage from the wide-ranging blast, which left debris stretched over a two-mile radius.
As scores of homeowners were forced to flee their homes, as the blast left their dwellings unlivable, investigators continue to comb through the wreckage to determine the cause of the explosion and whether it could have been prevented.
The investigation into what caused the blast is underway and may take months to conclude.
An online search of safety records uncovered that Watson Grinding and Manufacturing was previously fined by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration for a serious violation related to the control of hazardous energy in 2013.
What If I Was Hurt During the Plant Explosion in Houston?
If you have been hurt during this or another Houston plant explosion, it is important to get medical help right away to assess both short and long-term injuries, so you can get the care you need to heal.
While plant explosions often cause severe burn injuries and head trauma on the premises, nearby residents who were victimized by the blast can suffer more than just structural damage.
The blast reportedly caused houses to rock off their foundations, ceilings to collapse, and walls to fall in; all of which can cause severe injuries to that inside.
Call Our Houston, Texas Plant Explosion Attorneys Now
At the Nava Law Group, P.C., our Houston, Texas Plant explosion attorneys have the experienced injury victims need to pursue the negligent party responsible for their injuries, so they can seek the care they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Houston plant explosion, contact our personal injury attorneys in Houston, Texas today at (713) 661-9900 to discuss your injuries and our unique strategy for holding each party who caused the blast responsible for your financial recovery.
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