The Region : Chemical Cache Probed

Stanton police are investigating the illegal dumping of about a dozen containers of dangerous chemicals behind a vacated liquor store. The containers, found about 100 feet from an apartment complex, were removed from the site without any leakage, said police. A member of the Orange County Fire Department’s hazardous materials team, called in to handle the containers, told officers that one of the chemicals, acetaldehyde, was “unstable” and could explode if it became hot. Police were told of the chemicals by an anonymous tipster who said, “There are some dangerous chemicals. You’d better send someone quick.”