Texas Opening Criminal Investigation Into Fertilizer Plant Explosion

The Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Rangers are launching a criminal investigation into the fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas.

Last month's explosion killed 14 people and injured about 200 others. Most of those who died were first responders. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation.

See the press release below:

AUSTIN – Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Steven McCraw today directed the Texas Rangers to join McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara in launching a criminal investigation into the fertilizer plant explosion that occurred in West, Texas, on April 17.

“This disaster has severely impacted the community of West, and we want to ensure that no stone goes unturned and that all the facts related to this incident are uncovered,” said Director McCraw.

“The citizens of McLennan County and Texas must have confidence that this incident has been looked at from every angle and professionally handled – they deserve nothing less,” said Sheriff McNamara.

No further information regarding this ongoing investigation will be released at this time.

Three weeks after the disaster in West, DPS Division of Emergency Management officials also continue to work with local, state and federal partners to assess the damages and facilitate recovery assistance to the victims in the community.