Representatives from I. Schumann & Co, the Oakwood Village metal processing plant which was rocked by a devastating explosion and fire on February 20 in which one man died and 13 others were injured, has pledged full cooperation with investigators as they sift through ashes and a large exterior debris field searching for a cause.
Steven Mullins, 46, of North Ridgeville died.
“It is with heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of Steven Mullins, one of our valued colleagues and good friend to all,” according to a statement released by Matt Barkett, a company representative.
Mr. Mullins was a maintenance worker who had been with the company for almost 30 years.
“We intend to cooperate with OSHA and other officials in their investigation as we search for answers in this tragic accident,” according to the statement. “We are working with our employees regarding their needs while the facility is idle and hope to have clarity on our operations in the near future.”
According to Oakwood Village officials, the investigation also includes the ATF, EPA, FBI, FEMA, and the State Fire Marshall who has taken over the scene.
After the initial explosion around 2 p.m. plumes of black smoke from the Alexander Road facility could be seen from as far away as Broadview Heights while explosions could be felt as far away as Macedonia.
“There was a lot of smoke, a lot of fire, and a lot of injured people,” DiRocco said.”The front half of the building essentially blew off.”
DiRocco described the explosion as “catastrophic.”
During the fire, readers began sending pictures and videos to NordoniaHills.News and posting comments describing what was seen and felt.
One poster said her brother is an employee at the plant and that the workers are “forever changed” by the fire.
Another poster described the scene as a “war zone.”
One poster said a friend from Sagamore Hills is an employee and “severely burned in the I. Schumann explosion.”
Most of the readers offered heartfelt prayers for employees and condolences to the family of Mr. Mullins.
Ten fire departments from around the area assisted Oakwood Village with the fire, according to a joint statement from Gotshalk and Council President Johnnie Warren.
“We also would like to commend Captain Brian DiRocco and Police Chief Mark Garratt,” the Oakwood statement read. “They successfully led our phenomenal fire and police personnel.”
Barkett also commended first responders.
“We would like to thank the many first responders whose quick action following our accident yesterday ensured our employees who needed medical care got it quickly,” Barkett added.
And while fire officials initially said the fire began in a room used to pour molten steel, a cause has not yet been determined. However terrorism does not appear to be suspected, Gottshalk said.
According to Barkett, “We expect it will take time before we know more.”
And even with the explosion and debris no health hazards have been reported, according to Village officials.
“However, we continue to remain cautious,” according to Oakwood officials.
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