Human error is one possible reason for the central Florida gas plant explosion that injured eight on Tuesday, investigators said. So is equipment malfunction — but definitely not sabotage, authorities ruled.
The plant explosion sent a 20-by-20 foot by 20-foot fireball skyward, resulting in eight injuries but no deaths. Several agencies, including the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Florida State Fire Marshal’s office, kicked off an investigation but found no signs of foul play, The Associated Press reported.
Tavares Fire Chief Richard Keith said human error and technical failures are the more likely culprits, AP reported. But he did not specify what equipment may have failed or what mistake a worker could have made.
Four of the eight who were injured are in critical condition. About 50 homes located nearby were evacuated, but did not undergo damage, AP reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
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