At approximately 1950 Hours, an explosion rocked the fertilizer plant in West, TX, a town approximately nineteen miles East of Waco. 

The explosion severely damaged a nearby nursing home.  Casualties are unknown, but the radius of the blast has been extended all the way out to a three-mile radius. 

Followed by the blast, was a huge fire ball spreading to nearby structures.  Unknown reports stated five [5] volunteer firefighters and one [1] police officer were killed in the blast.  Information about the West Fire Department has said that it is staffed by thirty-three [33] Volunteer Firefighters.  The status of the firefighters is unknown at this time.

The West Mayor has voiced concerns of chemicals “in the air” and how it will affect those directly impacted by the blast and in surrounding areas.

Hillcrest Baptist Hospital located in nearby Waco, reported at 2100 hours, they have [66] patients.  Twelve [12] are serious, two [2] are in the operating room with two [2] more on their way,  two [2] are pediatric and are being transported to Children’s Hospital.  Several are burn patients and have been taken to Parkland Hospital in nearby Dallas-Fort Worth, which is located one-and-a-half hours away.

HAZMAT units have been busy deploying from one location to the next.

The National Guard offered their services, but were placed on standby approximately 2130 hours PST.

The American Red Cross in Waco, will open the Carter Blood Center to accept blood donations at 0900 CST.

Family members checking on loved ones can call the hotline at #254-202-1100.

Social sites, such as Twitter, YouTube and other news media have been showing blast photos, fire images and interviews on the web.  Pretty amazing photos.  This is at night and it is probably going to take people’s breath away when morning arrives viewing all of the damage.

Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the First Responders and the Families that have been impacted by this disaster.

More information will be on this blog as it is received.

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