At Least 2 Dead After Massive Explosion At Houston Plant
HOUSTON (CBSDFW.COM) - At least two people are dead after an explosion at a plant in Houston early Friday morning. It was an explosion that caused damage to nearby homes and business and was reportedly felt throughout the city.
The explosion happened at around 4:30 a.m. in the northwestern area of the city.
KTRK reports the explosion was at the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing plant on Gessner Road. The owner said the blast came from a propylene tank.
Authorities originally said at least one person was taken to the hospital with injuries and that another was unaccounted for in the area. Police later confirmed at least two deaths from the blast.
The fire department also sent a hazmat crew to the scene as there were fears of air quality issues. Although there were no air quality issues confirmed, officials have asked residents to stay away from the area as crews continue to clean up and investigate.
One resident captured the explosion on his camera as it could be seen lighting up the sky and a large fire that followed.
According to KTRK, residents reported that the explosion shook their homes and caused damage, such as broken windows and doors. Damage was also seen at a nearby convenience store, where doors were knocked off their hinges.
An elementary school and a middle school in Cy-Fair ISD were closed Friday due to the explosion.
There were no visible flames as the sun rose and the extent of the damage could be seen better. Aerial video showed the rubble from the explosion and surrounding buildings and residences damaged.
