Anaheim : Pipe Bomb Explosion Shatters 2 Windows

A pipe bomb exploded Thursday outside a building, police said, and the building’s owners believe that it may have been planted by a bomber who confused one company for another.

The explosion blew out two windows at the entrance to the Orval Kent Food Co. building at 1605 E. Pacifico Ave., police said. No one was reported injured in the 4:30 a.m. explosion. Police say they have no suspect or motive in the bombing.

Orval Kent spokesman Jonathan Talbot said, however, that the building still carried a large sign with the name Alex Brands Inc.

Another Anaheim firm, Alex Snack Foods Inc., has been the target of a monthlong strike by 65 workers represented by the United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 551.

“We have no idea who is responsible,” Talbot said, “but obviously the names could cause confusion. It’s certainly a possibility.”

Local 551 spokesman Greg Conger denied union involvement. “I understand and share (Orval Kent’s) concern, but I don’t see any connection whatsoever,” he said. “We know the difference between the companies. And we don’t do those things anyway.”

Orval Kent purchased Alex Brands Inc. in December, 1986, Talbot said.