40 People Missing After West Fertilizer Plant Blast

Image from amateur video.

At least 35 people have been reported dead after a fertilizer plant ignited and exploded. 

By H. Nelson Goodson

April 18, 2013

West, Texas - On Wednesday, at least 35 people were reported killed and 200 injured after the West Fertilizer, Inc. plant caught fire and then exploded, according to authorities in Texas. The death toll could rise to 40, since many have been reported missing and unaccounted. Jason Reyes, spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety could not confirm the death toll, but efforts are being made to go through the rubble to see, if anyone survived. Many of the missing victims might have vaporized in the massive inferno and explosion. 

About 75 homes were severly damaged, a 50-unit apartment complex was destroyed, Mayor Tommy Muska reported. Another report estimates up to 100 homes and businesses were destroyed in a several block radius and 1,000 people were without power. 

Texas Governor Rick Perry declared the town of West a disaster area.