FBI, EPA Search GKN Aerospace Plant Over 7,000-Gallon Chemical Tank Near Explosion

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 10

Federal agents searched GKN Aerospace’s Garden Grove site on Wednesday, collecting records, chemical samples and digital devices tied to last month’s near explosion.
A 7,000-gallon methyl methacrylate tank had become pressurized, overheated and vented gas, prompting fears it could erupt into a massive fireball.
More than 40,000 residents were ordered out over Memorial Day weekend as firefighters cooled the tank; officials later said a crack relieved pressure and let many return.
The warrant seeks evidence on who handled the hazardous chemical and how equipment was inspected, widening scrutiny of the aerospace parts maker as state and federal emergency declarations had already been issued.

Sources

Was the GKN chemical disaster a freak accident or the result of a known history of safety violations?

After a near-catastrophe and federal raid, can this aerospace giant ever regain the trust of its community?

Why is a chemical that forced 50,000 evacuations not covered by the strictest federal safety regulations?