On Monday at around 2:15pm, an explosion occurred at I. Schumann & Co., a factory that produces brass and bronze alloys in Bedford, Ohio. The cause of the explosion is unknown at this time.
Ambulances were seen at the scene, and one person was initially reported to be in critical condition. However, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed that the victim, identified as Steve Mullins, a 46-year-old maintenance worker at the company, died from his injuries.
The explosion was located about 70 miles northwest of East Palestine, where a toxic train derailed on February 3, and just south of Cleveland. Smoke from the blast could be seen for miles around the factory, and emergency services requested several medical helicopters.
Falling debris injured workers on the premises, but neighboring businesses were spared. Witnesses reported hearing two explosions, the second of which caused the brick wall of the building to be completely blown away, sending bricks and debris flying across the street.
Despite the danger inherent in the production of molten hot metal, a spokesperson for the Oakwood Fire Department called the facility a “relatively safe plant” and said that the cause of the explosion is under investigation.
The company, which has been operating since 1917, produces copper, brass, and bronze alloys. Representatives of the company were not immediately available for comment.