Ohio metal alloy factory explosion kills 1, injures more than a dozen others

Aftermath of explosion at Ohio metal factory seen in aerial video

An explosion at a Cleveland-area metal factory killed a maintenance worker and injured more than a dozen others while prompting multiple fire crews to respond Monday. 

At least two of those people were in critical condition, according to authorities. 

Emergency crews were called to the I. Schumann & Co. copper alloy company in the Cleveland suburb of Oakwood Village shortly before 3 p.m. ET on Monday.

Steven Mullins, 46, of North Ridgeville was killed in the blast, according to the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office. He was employed by the company for nearly 30 years. 

EPA COMES TO OHIO DERAILMENT SITE, WARNS OF FEDERAL CLEANUP TAKEOVER

Firefighters respond to a large explosion at the I. Schumann & Co. manufacturing plant in Oakwood Village, Ohio, on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023. ((Joshua Gunter/Cleveland.com via AP))

The cause of the explosion and resulting fire has not yet been determined, but officials said that the source was likely in the building's foundry. Molten metals are held there in kettles. 

A fire at an Ohio metal plant burned most of the building.  (Fox WJW)

The state Fire Marshal’s Office said Tuesday the blast did not appear to be "the result of a criminal act."

Damaged cars are seen after an explosion at the I. Schumann & Co. manufacturing plant in Oakwood Village, Ohio, on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023.  ((Joshua Gunter/Cleveland.com via AP))

EPA CHIEF, OHIO GOVERNOR DRINK TAP WATER NEAR TRAIN DERAILMENT SITE AFTER HEAVY CRITICISM

Videos posted to social media purportedly show damaged vehicles struck by debris from the fire, and smoke billowing from the resulting fire could be seen for miles.

Crews work to extinguish a fire at an Ohio metal plant.  (Fox WJW)

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP 

I. Schumann & Co. LLC issued a statement Tuesday in which it mourned Mullins’ death and thanked emergency responders for their efforts.

Debris is seen after a large explosion at I. Schumann & Co. manufacturing plant in Oakwood Village, Ohio, on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023.  ((Joshua Gunter/Cleveland.com via AP))

"We intend to cooperate with OSHA and other officials in their investigation as we search for answers in this tragic accident," the company said. "We are working with our employees regarding their needs while the facility is idle and hope to have clarity on our operations in the near future."

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Load more..