New details released after massive explosion at Logan Twp., New Jersey factory
LOGAN TWP., N.J. (WPVI) -- New details were released Friday about a factory explosion in Gloucester County, New Jersey, that left several workers seriously injured.
The explosion occurred Wednesday at Savita Naturals in Logan Township.
Officials said four workers from Savita were rushed to the hospital following the blast. As of Friday, three remain hospitalized in critical condition and one is listed in stable condition.
One person from a neighboring business was treated and released, according to officials.
Authorities also said three additional Savita employees transported themselves to a hospital after the explosion. No updates were available on their conditions.
Officials described the incident as catastrophic and said the injured employees were lucky to be alive.
Fire officials said the fire was fully extinguished after a controlled burn was used to address leaking propane on the property.
Five 500-gallon liquid propane tanks damaged in the explosion remain on site. Officials said that propane may also be burned off rather than moved before investigators are allowed to enter the property to continue their work.
"The tanks have a little damage from the explosion. They are secured at this time. But we are still concerned that with the propane that's on site, we would like to get it off-site or burn it off," said Logan Township Fire Chief Scott Oatman.
Damage assessments are still ongoing, primarily involving surrounding businesses.
Two buildings directly on either side of Savita Naturals have been deemed unsafe to enter because of the impact of the blast.
Logan Township Police Chief Joseph Flatley said there have also been reports of property damage to buildings as far as a mile away.
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Chief Oatman said the facility had no history of serious violations.
"Yes, we issued violations, but nothing major. They might have exit signs out or simple things. Nothing that was ever a major concern to us," Oatman said. "They were always pretty good to work with."
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting local agencies. Officials said OSHA and the Department of Labor have also been on scene.
Air quality monitoring is continuing, and officials said nothing hazardous has been detected so far.
Among those injured was company owner Richard Trout. His son, Kevin Trout, said his father suffered severe burns and a broken arm and is being treated in a medically induced coma at Temple's burn unit.
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Despite the seriousness of his injuries, the family expects him to recover.
"It's got to be very painful for the level of burns he has. I think it's over 56% of his body," Kevin Trout said on Thursday afternoon.
