FBI searches southern California facility where chemical incident spurred evacuation
Summary
The FBI is searching a chemical tank storage facility in Garden Grove, California, after a tank overheated and caused 50,000 people to evacuate in late May. Officials are investigating the handling and safety of the chemical methyl methacrylate stored there, which is highly flammable and can cause health problems.Key Facts
- The FBI has a search warrant to seize records about the use and storage of methyl methacrylate at the facility.
- The overheating tank contained 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate, a chemical used in plastics and coatings like Plexiglas.
- The Orange County district attorney is also investigating and has ordered the company not to destroy any evidence.
- The tank developed a crack that released pressure and prevented an explosion, allowing residents to return home soon after evacuation.
- Some residents and businesses have filed lawsuits against the company, GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems.
- Health officials reported no chemical fumes escaped and are monitoring the air and water in the area.
- GKN acknowledged the disruption and apologized to the community but says it is too early to decide if they should move the chemical tanks.
- This incident followed a deadly chemical tank accident in Washington state just days later.
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