A scheduled implosion of a power plant in Bakersfield, Calif. has resulted in a man losing his leg and four other reported injuries. The man was standing 1,000 feet away from Saturday's blast while others were injured by flying shrapnel, CNN reported. The steam power plant belonged to Pacific Gas and Electric.
The 43-year-old man was hit with shrapnel, which severed his leg. At least one other person was severely injured in the implosion while two were treated at the scene for minor injuries, Lt. Scott Tunnicliffe told reporters. The man who lost his leg was airlifted to Fresno to be treated for his injuries. PG&E released a statement expressing sympathies for the victims. Spokesman Denny Boyles said that the company believed it had secured a safe perimeter around the building before carrying out its destruction.
"Safety of the public and employees is our first priority at all times and we are deeply saddened that at least one individual suffered serious injuries," the company said in a statement. "We will work closely with all investigating agencies and the third-party contractors who managed and carried out the demolition as they work to identify the cause of this accident."
Cleveland Wrecking Co. of Covina was the main contractor in the blast and has since issued an apology regarding the incident. Two cars were also damaged in the blast. There has been no update on the man's condition nor has his identity been revealed. An investigation is scheduled to begin soon, SFGate reported.
"This was a terrible accident, and our hearts go out to the individuals who were injured," the wrecking company said in a statement. "We will be conducting a full investigation and will cooperate with the authorities."
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