A fertilizer plant explosion that killed 15 people and injured 260 more in West, Texas, three years ago was the result of a “criminal act,” federal officials revealed today. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said in a news conference it had ruled out all accidental and natural causes and is offering a $50,000 reward to help apprehend the person responsible. The explosion was triggered when a fire ignited about 30 tons of fertilizer grade ammonium nitrate that were stored in plywood bins.
The U.S Chemical Safety Board in February blamed West Fertilizer Co., OSHA, EPA and the West Volunteer Fire Department for various lapses in hazard awareness and training and emergency planning it said led to mass fatalities and extensive damage.
The explosion resulted in the deaths of 12 emergency responders and three members of the public.
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