12 Hurt in Explosion, Fire at Chemical Plant
A pipe exploded at a chemical plant, starting a raging fire that sent acrid smoke billowing through the building. Twelve people were injured, one critically.
The fire at the Technic manufacturing facility in Cranston burned so intensely that pipes in the ventilation system melted, and firefighters used fans to clear smoke. Authorities said the pipe exploded after a worker banged on it with a hammer to clear it. The worker was severely injured and in critical condition. The other 11 were treated for chemical exposure and released.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
