Chemical Tank Blast Kills 2, Injures 18; Toxic Cloud Emitted

ASHTABULA, Ohio — A tank containing 2,000 pounds of a caustic chemical exploded Friday, killing two persons, injuring at least 18 and sending a green chemical cloud into the air.

The late-morning explosion at the Diamond Shamrock Corp. plant caused a small fire and released a cloud of ammonium dichromate. Rain and wind helped break up the cloud and carry it over Lake Erie, where it posed no danger, authorities said.

Plant spokesman Barry Schenker said the chemical ignited in a dryer and caused the explosion. Ammonium dichromate is used to make chromium trioxide, which is used in paint pigments and in the photographic and cosmetic industries.

The dead were identified by the Ashtabula County coroner as William J. Smith, 29, of Conneaut and Lloyd A. Harley, 54, of Ashtabula. Both were employees of Diamond Shamrock.