Fatal Explosion at Alabama Industrial Plant

An explosion at Brent Industries Inc., Brent, AL, on Wednesday, March 11, killed one man and injured several more, according to the Brent police chief. The first explosion occurred around 1:45 p.m. Wednesday with at least four more explosions following, according to local media reports.

Police have identified the deceased as Keith Leverette, 35. Up to a half-dozen other employees received chemical burns and were taken to nearby hospitals after the explosions, according to the reports.

Brent Police Chief Terry Nichols said the fire at Brent Industries was contained Wednesday night, but the Alabama Fire Marshal's Office won't be able to investigate the cause of the explosions until flames completely burn out and cool down. In addition to the state Fire Marshal, the Bibb County (AL) Sheriff’s Office and the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives will investigate the cause of the blast.

Textile Services Weekly was not able to reach company officials for a statement on the incident.

For more information on the explosion and the ongoing investigation, read the following links:

http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2015/03/police_identify_man_killed_in.html

http://www.alabamas13.com/13-investigates/13-investigates-brent-industries-explosion/31762490

http://www.myfoxal.com/story/28396083/bibb-co-sheriffs-office-confirms-explosion-at-brent-industries