Death Toll in Texas Fertilizer Plant Blast Climbs to 35

Remains of a fertilizer plant and other buildings and vehicles after the plant exploded in West, Texas, USA, 17 April 2013.

Some 35 people, including 10 first responders, were killed in the Texas fertilizer company explosion Wednesday night, according to West Mayor Tommy Muska.

The casualties include five members of the West Volunteer Fire Department who were trying to put out the initial blaze, four EMS workers and an off-duty Dallas firefighter who pitched in to help, Muska has told USA Today.

The rest of the fatalities include residents from nearby homes in the devastated four-block area of the small north-central Texas town 20 miles north of Waco.

The explosion occurred Wednesday night, damaging or destroying buildings within a half-mile radius.

At least 50 homes and buildings were destroyed. Shock waves of an earthquake with a 2-points magnitude were felt as far as Arlington, Texas, approximately 100 miles away.

We need your support so Novinite.com can keep delivering news and information about Bulgaria! Thank you!