3 people still missing after explosion at Nebraska plant
Three people are unaccounted for following an explosion at a plant in Nebraska.
The incident occurred around noon on July 29 at the Horizon Biofuels plant in Fremont, the city’s Mayor Joey Spellerberg said during a briefing. Fremont is approximately 47 miles northwest of Omaha.
Fremont Fire Chief Tom Bernt also said at the briefing that three people were inside the building at the time and that a lot of wood and alcohol-based products were stored inside the structure. He also said his department immediately responded to the scene and noticed large structural issues with the building.
Firefighters were not able to gain access to the structure, which remained engulfed in flames hours after the explosion.
Search underway people still missing in Nebraska explosion
"Just due to the collapse with the mangled steel and we’re unable to get inside," Bernt said. At that point, he requested assistance from Task Force One, an urban search and rescue team. He said he expects fire crews to be on scene for several days.
Spellerberg emphasized that no other buildings in the area were at risk.
In a statement posted to social media, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen said his office is closely monitoring the explosion and is coordinating with local responders, law enforcement and state partners.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all involved — and we’re ready to help any way we can," Pillen said.
Horizon Biofuels’ website was down on the morning of July 30, and the company could not immediately be reached for comment.
Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter at Paste BN. Contact her at mdelrey@usatoday.com.