(CNN)The fire that led to a deadly explosion at a West, Texas, fertilizer plant three years ago was intentionally set, authorities said Wednesday.
The blast devastated the Texas town of West in April 2013 and killed 15 people -- including 12 first responders.
Texas blast leaves nearly 100-foot crater
Investigators determined someone started the fire on purpose after conducting 400 interviews and lab work on evidence, said officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Authorities would not comment on whether they know of a suspect.
But "we're headed in the right direction," ATF Special Agent in Charge Robert Elder said.
Wow.
“Hard times create strong men. Strong men create good times. Good times create weak men. And, weak men create hard times.”
(CNN)The fire that led to a deadly explosion at a West, Texas, fertilizer plant three years ago was intentionally set, authorities said Wednesday.
The blast devastated the Texas town of West in April 2013 and killed 15 people -- including 12 first responders.
Texas blast leaves nearly 100-foot crater
Investigators determined someone started the fire on purpose after conducting 400 interviews and lab work on evidence, said officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Authorities would not comment on whether they know of a suspect.
But "we're headed in the right direction," ATF Special Agent in Charge Robert Elder said.
Wow.
That's unbelievable! I can't imagine a worse finding, I hope that they find out who the culprit is, if he's not already on a plane out of the country. I remember when that happened, we felt it at home in Alvarado, 40 miles away, it rattled our windows, and sounded like thunder. I can't imagine what it was like closer to it.
Take away the Second first, and the First is gone in a second
I was under the impression from earlier reports when this happened that it was an accident. I was surprised to find out it was arson instead. Hopefully they know or can figure out who was responsible.
"When governments fear the people, there is liberty. When the people fear the government, there is tyranny" - Thomas Jefferson
“Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, an American Soldier doesn't have that problem". — President Ronald Reagan, 1985
My understanding was the plant was there first and the populated area grew up around the plant.
Well who ever started the fire, they'll be facing capital murder charges!
Government, like fire is a dangerous servant and a fearful master
If you ain't paranoid you ain't paying attention
Don't fire unless fired upon, but if they mean to have a war let it begin here- John Parker
"All reasonable, accidental and natural fire scenarios were hypothesized, considered, tested and eliminated as being fire causes,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge from the Houston Field Division Robert Elder.
crazy2medic wrote:My understanding was the plant was there first and the populated area grew up around the plant.
We had this conversation back when it happened. That is my recollection as well.
I am not a lawyer, nor have I played one on TV, nor did I stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night, nor should anything I say be taken as legal advice. If it is important that any information be accurate, do not use me as the only source.
Fertilizer plants would make attractive targets for a terrorist (home grown or otherwise), I am surprised we haven't seen more instances of this type thing (arson).
Another type target: Petroleum Bulk Terminals (where tanker trucks fill up) and pipeline hubs are often woefully under guarded and would make easy targets. Terminals are all over the place and have bulk quantities of refined petroleum products (primarily gasoline).
An attack on that kind of facility would not necessarily result in much loss of life, but it would certainly have a major disruptive effect.
flintknapper wrote:Fertilizer plants would make attractive targets for a terrorist (home grown or otherwise), I am surprised we haven't seen more instances of this type thing (arson).
Another type target: Petroleum Bulk Terminals (where tanker trucks fill up) and pipeline hubs are often woefully under guarded and would make easy targets. Terminals are all over the place and have bulk quantities of refined petroleum products (primarily gasoline).
An attack on that kind of facility would not necessarily result in much loss of life, but it would certainly have a major disruptive effect.
And I think they are gun free zones due to federal laws. So only the terrorists will be armed. Luckily there are signs telling them to stay out.
