CALVIN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A tragic explosion at an oil-pumping station in southwestern Michigan has left one person dead and caused significant alarm throughout the area. The incident, which occurred at a pumping station owned by Port Huron-based Trak Oil company, resulted in the death of 71-year-old Charles Lawrence of Lakefort, Michigan. Another individual suffered minor injuries, according to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office.
The explosion took place while the two men were working on a tank, resulting in a fire that broke out around 3:50 p.m. on Monday. The impact of the blast was so powerful that it rattled homes for miles around, as reported by several nearby residents. The pumping station, located in Calvin Township near the Indiana border, is about 10 miles east of Edwardsburg.
Ronald Bowers, a resident in the vicinity, described the aftermath of the explosion, stating, “We felt the explosion from it quite a bit. I mean it rattled our house quite well. It was a hefty little explosion.” The intensity of the blast and its far-reaching effects have raised serious concerns among local residents and authorities.
The Michigan State Police Fire Marshal, along with the state’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion. The incident has prompted questions about the safety protocols in place at oil-pumping stations and the potential risks posed to surrounding communities. The tragic loss of life and the widespread impact of the explosion have underscored the need for a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the matter.
The explosion and subsequent fire have not only resulted in a loss of life but have also caused significant disruption and concern in the surrounding area. As authorities continue their investigation, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of this devastating incident. The implications of this tragic event extend far beyond the immediate vicinity, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with industrial facilities such as oil-pumping stations.