News

Actions

Up to 15 People Killed in Texas Explosion

Posted at 6:39 AM, Apr 18, 2013
and last updated 2013-04-18 06:39:13-04

WACO, Texas – An explosion at a fertilizer plant in the town of West, Texas has killed up to 15 people, wounded more than 150, and leveled dozens of homes.  It also prompted authorities to evacuate half their community of 2,800.

The death toll could still rise as search teams make their way through the devastation.

The Wednesday night blast shook houses 50 miles away and measured as a 2.1-magnitude seismic event, according to the United States Geological Survey.  The plant that exploded was right next to an apartment complex, a nursing home, and a middle school.

The nursing home, with 133 residents, was quickly evacuated.

Video of the blast is below (warning: dramatic footage)