Death toll rises as more bodies recovered after oil plant blast

The death toll in an explosion at state oil plant in Mexico rose to 13 on Thursday. Another ten bodies were recovered by rescue workers who were able to get into the facility in the city of Coatzacoalcos. Three workers were reported dead immediately following the blast, which injured 136 more and forced hundreds from their homes. Most of those injured were still in hospital on Thursday and two were said to be in a grave condition.

We have examined the affected area and can say that unfortunately so far there are 13 people dead

Head of Mexico’s emergency services Luis Felipe Puente

The explosion happened on Wednesday afternoon at a plant, which produces vinyl chloride, a hazardous industrial chemical used to make PVC pipes. The blast, which was heard six miles away, and ensuing fire led to the area being evacuated as a fire billowed a toxin-filled cloud into the air. Later, in the evening the fire had been brought under control but residents were urged to stay away from the area.