On Wednesday, an explosion at Bonnell Aluminum in Newnan, Georgia —
just 35 miles southwest of Atlanta — resulted in five workers sustaining
injuries ranging from wounded to life-threatening. The blast could be
felt up to a mile away.
Two of the workers were treated at the scene, while two others were transported
to a local hospital and one was airlifted to Atlanta Medical Center.
Images of the scene could be seen from television helicopters covering
the story, showing the plant’s roof with a gaping hole and scraps
of debris surrounding the area. Witnesses reported hearing a load blast
and comparing it to something “shooting 50,000 times.”
Officials for the aluminum plant released a statement, citing that it was
too early to determine a cause, but that it would be working with local
fire officials to conduct their investigation. The explosion also caused
damage to Sewell Marine, a nearby business, as well as started a small
fire on a boat in the business’ lot.
Bonnell Aluminum was established in 1955 and has been a leading manufacturer
of custom pieces.