Kanawha County Official: Bayer's Response to 911 was "Unacceptable"

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Posted: 4:25 AM Sep 5, 2008
Last Updated: 2:39 PM Feb 26, 2009
Reporter: Mike Waterhouse; Amanda Barren
Email Address: mike.waterhouse@wsaz.com; amanda.barren@wsaz.com

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INSTITUTE, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- When it comes to the explosion at the Bayer CropScience plant, there are still more questions than answers.

A spokesperson for the company said they will sit down with metro 911 next week to talk about what worked and what didn't. But county leaders have made it clear that there was a massive communication failure.

WSAZ obtained a letter from the county to Bayer on Friday, claiming that Bayer told emergency crews from all over the western part of the county nothing in the crucial moments following last week's explosion.

Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper said 12 pages of transcripts show Bayer gave little information.

On Friday, Bayer said, "We believe we established the correct communications with metro 911." Site manager Nick Crosby, however, won't give any specifics.

Carper called it a "complete abdication of Bayer’s responsibility to your neighbors and our first responders." Crosby said he is "somewhat surprised to see his (Carper’s) words and will take them into account."

Given several chances, Crosby would only say they established correct communications. He would not answer who they talked with at metro, who called from his plant or even why a guard was tying up an emergency line to give out information they claim they were giving off a recorded line.

One thing Bayer already has said it has learned is that there has clearly been a change in the public’s expectations of communications in these incidents.

UPDATE: Friday 9/5 @ 11:25am
Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper sent a letter dated September 4 to Bayer Plant Manager Nick Crosby, criticizing the plant's communication with Metro 911.

In the letter, Carper says Metro 911 "repeatedly asked for information and was refused." He adds that the company did not provide information to the public in a timely manner.

"This was a complete abdication of Bayer's responsibility to your neighbors and our first responders, who were sent uninformed to an explosion because no one was 'allowed' to inform us," wrote Carper.

Carper included the transcripts of the 911 calls made to/from Metro 911 the night of the explosion.

[ click here to read Commissioner Carper's letter to Bayer ]

Bayer issued a response to these calls. Scroll down below the timeline to read the company's statement.

UPDATE: Friday Morning 9/5
WSAZ.com has compiled a timeline of events the night of the explosion. The information for the chart comes from Metro 911 records and electronic communications WSAZ.com received the night of the emergency.

[ click here to read the transcript provided by Metro 911 ]


10:33 PM thursday 8.28	First call to Kanawha County Metro 911 comes in from a resident. County emergency crews are dispatched to the Bayer CropScience Plant in Institute. WSAZ.com obtained recordings of some of the first calls.
10:39 PM thursday 8.28	Metro 911 tried to contact Bayer via telephone. The phone rings 7 times before a guard at the main gate answers and confirms an emergency at the plant.
10:42 PM thursday 8.28	Metro tries to contact Bayer again. The phone rings 7 times before the same guard answers and tells the dispatcher an ambulance is needed for a burn patient. The employee says he can't give more information. Police close Route 25.
10:45 PM thursday 8.28	WSAZ.com confirms the explosion with Metro 911 dispatchers and a story is posted to this site.
11:07 PM thursday 8.28	WSAZ's crew arrives at the scene and takes the first picture via cell phone and shows it on the air (click on image to enlarge)
11:12 PM thursday 8.28	WSAZ e-Reporter Johnny Walls of St. Albans captures video of the fire and sends it to the station where it is immediately played on the air. (click on link to watch the video)	click here to watch the clip (WMV)
11:15 PM thursday 8.28	A guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 and speaks with a supervisor at Metro. He says he has been trying to call, but had trouble getting through. He says Metro should alert the community to an emergency at the plant.
11:32 PM thursday 8.28	County leaders activate the Emergency Alert System (EAS), prompting a shelter in place for the cities located around the plant. It spans from South Charleston to Nitro.
11:34 PM thursday 8.28	A guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 again and informs the dispatcher that the plant is still in "emergency condition" and the community should remain alerted.
12:06 AM friday 8.29	A guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 and tells the dispatcher the plant remains in an emergency response condition. He says a representative from Bayer is on the way to Metro's EOC.
12:40 AM friday 8.29	The guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 to give an update. He says the plant is still in an emergency response condition.
12:40 AM friday 8.29	Metro sends out a notification to media organizations advising that the shelter in place remains in effect, and that I-64 is shut down in both directions near Institute.
1:12 AM friday 8.29	The guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 to give another update. He says the plant's response team is "responding to our emergency" and that the plant remains in an emergency response condition.
1:18 AM friday 8.29	Metro 911 extends the shelter in place warning for the areas surround the Bayer Plant. This includes South Charleston, Dunbar, Jefferson, St. Albans, Nitro, Cross Lanes, and Institute.
1:21 AM friday 8.29	WSAZ.com contacts West Virginia State Fire Marshal Sterling Lewis. He says there is a possibility of more explosions at the plant. He confirms one person is burned, another missing.
1:40 AM friday 8.29	Mike Wey, spokesperson for Bayer, holds a news conference. He says the fire is still burning, but it's contained. He also says the chemical involved is a non-toxic waste product.
1:43 AM friday 8.29	The guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 to inform Metro that the plant's emergency team is still responding to the emergency.
2:01 AM friday 8.29	County leaders cancel the shelter in place warning for western Kanawha County and reopen Interstate 64.
3:01 AM friday 8.29	The guard at Bayer's main gate calls 911 to inform Metro that their response has "things under control," but that the plant is still in an alarm state.
3:33 AM friday 8.29	The guard at Bayer's main gate calls 911 and tells the dispatcher that there is still an alarm going on at the plant and their emergency squad is on the scene.
5:50 AM friday 8.29	The guard at the main gate at Bayer calls 911 and tells the dispatcher that there is an all clear except for the Larvin unit.

[ click here to download one MP3 file containing all of the calls ]

UPDATE @ 5:09pm Thursday 9/4
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Kanawha County officials are criticizing Bayer CropScience for not releasing enough information quickly during the explosion at the Institute plant last week.

On Thursday, Kanawha County Metro 911 released recordings of the calls between Bayer and the 911 center. The recordings start at 10:39 p.m. last Thursday after the explosion happened, and run through 5:50 a.m. Friday morning.

[ click here to read the transcript provided by Metro 911 ]

Call after call, a person who says he's a guard at the front gate at the Bayer Plant tells Metro 911 that there is an emergency at the plant and he hasn't been authorized to release any more information.

"My supervisor informed me to tell you to uh alert the community that there is an emergency uh in the plant right now," said the guard at Bayer.

Commissioner Dave Hardy calls the information provided by Bayer following the blast unacceptable. He says Bayer needed to let Metro know as much as possible so that the county could provide the proper response.

Late Friday, Bayer issued this statement about the recordings:

"We shared all available information with Metro 911 as that information became available over the course of the incident.

The transcripts of the calls to Metro 911 which were released today represent only a portion of the communication between Bayer CropScience and emergency response officials during this event.

A number of other contacts were made over the course of the event to the Office of Emergency Services, indicating the nature of the event and providing more details.

Further, there were several county and state emergency services representatives present in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at the Bayer CropScience Institute site. These personnel had full access to all information pertaining to the incident.

Also, when requested by Metro 911, we had two people from our site go to the mobile command center and had another liaison dispatched to the Metro 911 Operations Center on Corridor G.

We fully support and count on the 911 system and, together with the media, we count on them to carry important messages to the public.

We will continue to work with Metro 911 to improve our information flow. As part of this commitment, we will be actively participating with them in the critique next week."

We are continuing to add more information to this story as we dig through the data and talk with more county and Bayer officials. We will also add the recordings. Keep clicking on WSAZ.com for more information.

SUNDAY UPDATE
The US Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board announced Sunday that it will be on site at Bayer until Friday to investigate the explosion and safety concerns in that area of the plant.

The chairman of the board, John Bresland, says the purpose is to make recommendations to the company, OSHA, the Environmental Protection Agency and the county about what can be done to keep an incident like this from happening again.

They'll examine the accident site and talk to employees and managers at the plant. Their recommendations will not be mandates for the company, but suggestions.

The board will hold public meetings on the findings.

UPDATE @ 1:14pm Saturday
WSAZ.com has obtained some of the first 911 calls to Kanawha County Metro 911 following Thursday's explosion at the Bayer Plant in Institute.

Click here to listen to five calls released by Metro (MP3 / 1.42MB / 4:08)
NOTE: the calls have been edited to remove personal information (names, addresses, phone numbers)

UPDATE @ 12:25pm Saturday
The Kanawha County Commission and the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board will hold a news conference about the Institute explosion Sunday at 3:00pm.

Keep clicking on WSAZ.com for the latest information.

UPDATE @ 10:36pm
WSAZ.com has learned that the worker burned during the explosion is Bill Oxley. He was taken to the West Penn Burn Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

UPDATE @ 7:02pm
We spoke with friends of explosion victim Barry Withrow Friday. Click here to read more about Barry.

UPDATE @ 6:49pm
WSAZ.com has obtained surveillance video that captured the flash and sound of the explosion. The surveillance system is configured to record both video and audio. It was provided by the Moose Lodge on Route 60 in Jefferson.

Click on the link above to watch the video.

UPDATE @ 6:00pm
By WSAZ reporter Amanda Barren
INSTITUTE, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- While the people who work at the Bayer CropScience site are trying to cope with the aftermath of Thursday night's explosion, investigators are trying to figure out what went wrong.

Broken glass and caution tape are two signs that Thursday night’s explosion reached far beyond the confines of the Institute plant.

Jill Oliver of Oliver Oils and Fuels had some glass shattered at her business from the explosion, but knows what she lost can be replaced.

"I hated that that man lost his life," she said Friday, referring to Barry Withrow, the Bayer CropScience employee who was killed. "There is a family that is grieving the loss of a loved one right now."

Investigators said they will thoroughly sift through the scene to determine what happened.

"We will pull this apart with a toothpick and, until we can flush out the real cause of it, we are not going to start that unit again," said Nick Crosby of Bayer CropScience.

The unit is located on the west end of the plant. Crosby said there was no indication of trouble.

"It was running, it was producing product, it was normal," he said. "Things were progressing well."

But in a split second that changed. Flames started shooting at least 100 feet in the air when a chemical residue ignited.

"I know there was some concern about offsite air pollution," Crosby said. "We monitor the pollution, and we found no evidence of any chemicals or injuries or harm to people."

Crosby put things in perspective at a news conference Friday, saying that people are safer working inside their chemical site than they are crossing the road. Investigators from both the state and federal government are now investigating, and the investigation could take several days.

UPDATE @ 5:07pm
Metro 911 says it took 2,859 calls between 10:35pm and 3:00am, most of which dealt with the explosion in Institute. On an average Thursday evening in the same time period, Metro says it takes about 284 calls.

Metro also tells WSAZ.com that for the first time employees can remember, so many 911 calls came into the center that the lines were overloaded, causing some people to get a message saying, "all circuits are busy."

There was also a problem with the information line that Metro 911 set up at its emergency operations center (EOC) for residents to call in and ask questions. County officials tell us some sort of glitch caused only one line to work at one, causing most callers to get a busy signal. A phone technician had the problem repaired by about 3:00 a.m.

UPDATE @ 12:46am
Bayer officials tell WSAZ.com that the explosion happened in the same general area where an explosion happened on August 18, 1993. Two people were killed in that blast on the west end of the campus.

Officials say the 1993 explosion occurred during the initial part of the process, while Thursday night's explosion happened at the end part. They say the company spent millions of dollars to correct the 1993 problem, and will do the same to correct whatever caused the most recent explosion.

WEB EXTRA: watch our coverage of the 1993 explosion. Click on the video links above.

UPDATE @ 11:35am
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board says it is sending a five-member investigation team to the scene of the explosion. They are expected to arrive Friday evening.

According to the news release, the CSB is an independent federal agency charged with investigating industrial chemical accidents.

UPDATE @ 10:46am
From The Associated Press
INSTITUTE, W.Va. (AP) - One worker has been killed and another injured in an explosion and fire at the Bayer CropScience plant in Institute.

Kanawha County Emergency Management Director Dale Petry identified the victim of Thursday night's accident as Barry Withrow, but didn't know his age or hometown. Petry didn't know the name of the injured worker, who was transferred to a Pittsburgh hospital.

State Department of Environmental Protection spokeswoman Kathy Cosco says that the chemical primarily involved in the fire was methyl isobutyl ketone.

Methyl isobutyl ketone, also called MIBK, is used in the production of the insecticide Larvin.

Cosco says the chemical isn't particularly toxic but highly flammable.

The company says air monitoring found no signs of chemical exposure, either on or off site.

Bayer also produces methyl isocyanate -- or MIC -- which killed at least 15,000 people in a leak in Bhopal, India, in 1984. But Petry said that chemical is stored in steel-wrapped underground containers located far from the blast site.

The explosion occurred at about 10:25 p.m. and could be felt miles away. The fire was extinguished at about 2 a.m.

The cause hasn't been determined.

UPDATE @ 7:02am
Bayer Plant officials say the company is "devastated" after an explosion killed one worker, and injured another. They say a vessel ruptured, and the contents inside that vessel caught fire.

Bayer says its last accident at that plant was at least two years ago.

Officials say the shelter in place was issued for precautionary reasons, and no toxic chemicals were released.

UPDATE @ 5:42am
During a live news conference Friday morning, West Virginia Fire Marshal Sterling Lewis Confirmed that one person died, another was burned in an explosion at the Bayer CropScience Plant in Institute Thursday night.

UPDATE @ 4:39am
The missing worker's brother, Chris Withrow, tells WSAZ.com that emergency crews found Barry Withrow dead inside the Bayer CropScience Plant following Thursday night's explosion.

Chris says Barry was from St. Albans and worked at the plant for more than 20 years. Barry was working overtime Thursday night, according to Chris. The last time Chris spoke to Barry was Tuesday night while Barry was at work.

UPDATE @ 2:59am
From The Associated Press:
INSTITUTE, W.Va. (AP) - One worker is missing and a second was injured in an explosion at a Bayer CropScience plant that forced thousands of nearby residents to shelter in place.

Bayer spokesman Mike Wey says the explosion occurred about 10:25 p.m. Thursday. The explosion, which witnesses say sent a fireball hundreds of feet into the air, ignited waste residue in a section of the plant that produces insecticides.

Wey says the injured worker suffered burns and was transferred to a Pittsburgh hospital for treatment. Wey said both workers are senior employees at the plant.

He said a search for the missing worker won't be conducted until the fire is extinguished.

The plant is located about 10 miles west of Charleston.

UPDATE @ 2:09am
Brent Pauley, Kanawha County Manager, tells WSAZ.com that the fire is now completely out at the Bayer CropScience Plant in Institute.

Crews are going to assess the situation before going in to look for the missing worker.

UPDATE @ 2:04am
911 dispatchers tell WSAZ.com that the shelter in place has been lifted for western Kanawha County. Interstate 64 has also re-opened to traffic.

UPDATE @ 1:40am
Mike Wey with Bayer CropScience is holding a news conference right now. He says the fire is still burning at this time, but it is contained to the area where the explosion happened.

Wey confirms that one man was burned and is being taken to a burn center in Pittsburgh. Another worker is still missing. Wey says both have worked with the company for some time.

Wey says a waste product appears to be what exploded. It's a very flammable product. Wey says it was NOT Larvin. He says the product released to the area after the explosion is not toxic.

Eight operators were working in the area where the explosion happened--six of them were in a safe area and were not hurt.

UPDATE @ 1:21am
State Fire Marshal Sterling Lewis tells WSAZ.com that there is the possibility for more explosions at the plant.

UPDATE @ 12:45am
An emergency worker at the scene tells WSAZ.com that one of the chemicals possibly involved is methomyl.

UPDATE @ 12:40am
A Bayer spokesperson is expected to give a statement soon.

Metro 911 says I-64 is closed in both directions near Institute. It's shut down in the west bound lanes at the Dunbar exit--and at the Nitro exit east bound.

UPDATE @ 12:25am
Emergency workers at the scene tell us one person was burned, another is missing.

Right now, there is now word about school Friday.

Anyone wanting more information should call the EOC at Metro 911: (304) 746-8828.

This is the message from the EAS Alert:
THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE IS TRANSMITTED AT THE REQUEST OF THE KANAWHA METRO 911.

DUE TO AN EXPLOSION AT THE BAYER CROP SCIENCE PLANT IN INSTITUTE...A SHELTER IN PLACE HAS BEEN ISSUED BY METRO 911 FOR THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS...SOUTH CHARLESTON...DUNBAR...JEFFERSON...SAINT ALBANS...NITRO...CROSS LANES...AND INSTITUTE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. EMERGENCY OFFICIALS ARE ON THE SCENE.

ALL PERSONS IN THE AFFECTED AREAS SHOULD REMAIN INSIDE THEIR HOMES OR SOME OTHER CLOSED BUILDING. AN OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT WILL INSTRUCT YOU WHEN IT IS SAFE TO LEAVE. TURN ON YOUR LOCAL RADIO OR TV STATIONS FOR ADDITIONAL EMERGENCY DETAILS.

ORIGINAL STORY @ 10:45pm
INSTITUTE, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- 911 dispatchers in Kanawha County are reporting that there has been an explosion at the Bayer Cropscience Plant in Institute.

Reports indicate that fire is shooting into the air from the plant.

911 dispatchers say people should stay in their homes and stay clear of the area.

Route 25 is shut down at this time.

WSAZ has a crew on the way to the scene. Keep clicking on WSAZ.com for more information.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Shayna on May 14, 2009 at 09:25 AM
My prayers are with you everywhere this family goes without there husband/father....

Posted by: get over it on Sep 30, 2008 at 12:10 PM
First of all, I would like to say to the family of the man that was killed in this explosion my prayers are with you. To everyone else, let it go. Why do you want to nit pic the H3!! out of this? Its like you wont be satisfied until somebody says, A harmful chemical was released, the guard really let the phone ring 45 times, and no body really really wanted you to know at all. Let me tell you, the world is still spinning, ur still breathing, quit nit picking and do something constructive!! Some people arent happy until they make a soap opera out of everything

Posted by: DISAGREE ANONYMOUS on Sep 21, 2008 at 07:35 PM
Since you wont list your name I will asume you Work for the Company. YOUR STATEMENT IS FALSE MISLEADING AND TOTALLY INEPT-Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 07:09 AM Come on people the reason for the delay in shelter in place was the fact the potenial release wasn't going to accure until the fire was put out. Any potenial realease was being consumed by the fire (all escaping chemicals were being burnt up).-Your an IDIOT-Yes The Chemical may have been consumed by the flames but what about the TOXIC fumes emitted into the atmosphere from this reaction to the flames.Get it straight the company didnt and still dosent want us to know what chemical reaction took place because of the fire. I doubt we will ever know the truth. So Stop adding to the Lies being told by the Company.

Posted by: ND on Sep 11, 2008 at 10:44 PM
Agree with Anonymous Sep 6 709- You are right on! If people only knew what went down the RR tracks everyday they would FREAK! Bayer knew what they were doing. All the information metro just "had to have" was nothing more then nosey information. OBVIOUSLY there was an explosion, OBVIOUSLY there was a fire. It made NO DIFFERENCE to Metro OR THE PUBLIC what unit it was in (not that knowing the chemical name would mean anything to them anyway) or the fact that someone was killed, and someone was injured. When they needed the ambulance they called, and when the needed the Medical Examiner Im sure they called. The guard was just doing what he was told to do but whoever was in charge. But the lesson learned is, that in the future, all media inquires should be directed to the Institute VFD e-reporter team who will have all the latest rumors and cellphone footage.

Posted by: To Bob on Sep 7, 2008 at 04:25 PM
St.Albans is in Kanawha County! Maybe you should look at a map Bob. I know that out right murder is more important but how many other things are?? Stopping an obviously drunk driver should be an important act. You might want to pray that someone you love isn't killed by one of the 100's of wreckless and drunk drivers that 911 is too busy to deal with.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 7, 2008 at 04:13 PM
when will you people every learn its always who's buttering your bread sounds like in this case thou cup runing over

Posted by: Ron on Sep 7, 2008 at 11:09 AM
OK, enough of this. Next!

Posted by: Bob on Sep 7, 2008 at 07:24 AM
Bev -- Someone needs to look into the 911 system in "Charleston" yet you didn't call until you were in Putnam & Cabell County? Might want to look at a map there. And 911 has a lot more important things to deal with than the 100's of wreckless and drunk driver calls received every day.

Posted by: Bev on Sep 6, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Yes it should "D"! Somebody needs to check into the 911 system in Charleston. We followed a drunk driver from St.Albans to Ona. We called right before we left St.Albans and the dispatcher was not sympathetic at all. This woman was so drunk she kept running off the road and swerving left of center( Yes she was drunk, we looked her in the face. This was not a medical situation.). It took 30 minutes to get her stopped and it was Cabell County who finally did it. We had to call 4 times from St.Albans to Ona. We passed 2 cops in Milton who just looked the other way. However we looked on the Regional Jail website and we never did see her picture. Did they arrest her or maybe the reason for the delay in stopping her was so she could be in a county of cops who know her?? It remains a mystery right now.

Posted by: D on Sep 6, 2008 at 02:46 PM
OK, enough of this already. Should this still be in your top headline, WSAZ????

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 07:09 AM
Come on people the reason for the delay in shelter in place was the fact the potenial release wasn't going to accure until the fire was put out. Any potenial realease was being consumed by the fire (all escaping chemicals were being burnt up). Is this the real issue here or is it the fact the guard who was only doing as told didn't tell metro that someone got burnt and another had passed away? Just what did Metro have to know? They were fighting a fire and yes there was an Explosion. What realivance was it that it was in the Larvin unit? Did that cause more concern or less, just don't know why that has to be played over and over? Yes I have alot of questions as to why the hype. Concerned about chemicals at the Bayer plant, why people they roll down your streets and back yards everyday and some are as bad as it can get as far as chemicals are concerned and no ones yelling about that.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 09:38 PM
just a big bunch of exaggerations from a bunch of dumb people. They'll probably sue for getting a bruise on their rear end after getting "blown out of their chairs" What a laugh! Its no wonder people think West Virginia is full of morons. You can shut your mouth and let people think you're dumb, or open your mouth and remove all doubt. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!

Posted by: WV Resident on Sep 5, 2008 at 04:34 PM
Although I do not live in the Kanawha Valley, I do live near two chemical plants. I was told Tuesday that our community was under a shelter in place and yet I saw no alerts on the TV nor was told anything about it until I picked my kids up from school.It was then I found out that my preschooler had been in shelter in place for 40 minutes with the sixth grade class. I can understand why the people of Institute were so upset by this matter. After reading the 911 transcripts, I think it was very poor judgment on Bayer's part to leave the poor guard as the relay person in this matter. Don't they have someone to handle these situations with the authority to produce the information needed? Sounds like they need to get it together for the sake their employees and our communities!

Posted by: jaf on Sep 5, 2008 at 03:45 PM
Now living in the ral world - I believe bayer did the fastest communication they could under the situation. A part of the chemical process exploded - no more radio contact with 2 men - flames and chemicals in the air - no one is going to put someone out in that so they can pin point EXACTLY what was released and how much. It takes electricity to gather that data on the modern tracking controls to put amounts together for information to the public and agencies. As far as the security guard - he said what he can - with all the lawsuit happy folks - someone like him cannot guess or provide incomplete information. It really could have been worse if it wasn't for the knowledge and care of the staff and the emergency responders.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 02:30 PM
To anonymous on Sep 1, 2008 at 03:05 AM, How humble of you to say the things about the people that worked for Bayer, when you are one of the unsung heros. I was going to read all of the comments below but now I've changed my mind. Instead, I will thank all of the unsung heros that worked hard that night and every other night to ensure everybodies safety. Y'all do things above and beyond the call of duty, you're amazing. This thanks goes out to everybody that puts there life on the line to save mine in a time of crisis. I too am proud to be an american...

Posted by: RoaneCo. on Sep 5, 2008 at 01:45 PM
Don't you people have more important safety issues to complain about, like me smoking a cigarette at the Moose Lodge!! I don't think these people that called in and said they got knocked out of their dining room chair (from 10 miles away) are more experienced at handling the situation than Bayer.

Posted by: genie on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:56 PM
exactly carl@! they hire very few people and then do not care enough about our people to issue a shelter in place or evacuation until it would have been too late if there HAD been a major leak. It is time for them to accept responsibility for this mess and senseless death. No amount of money could be worth the lives that could have been affected with no one ever knowing until too late.

Posted by: To Nate on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:32 PM
First off you need to know what you are talking about. Just because people are volunteers DOES NOT mean that they are not TRAINED PROFESSIONALS. They have to have all the same classes and training, even HAZMAT (if you know what that means). Had any of these volunteers not had the training they would not be allowed inside the plant, they have rules and regulations too. Besides that, Tyler Mountain and Institute's VOLUNTEER fire Departments put out that fire while the PAID "TRAINED PROFESSIONALS" kept a stand by. And by the way Volunteers do not get their socks off when their pagers go off, they put them on.

Posted by: TimA on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:25 AM
GET them out of here. For so little they offer this community - the risk are far too great. I fear what they cover up and what they have in tanks underground. I would not drink water from either dunbar or institute. Its time for them to take their british butts home, along with their chemical distructions.

Posted by: carl on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:29 AM
these companies come here and hire ten or twenty people,and put thousands at risk. its not worth the risk for just few jobs.

Posted by: sheila on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:32 AM
what happened to the siren that was suppose to go off when they have trouble in the plant.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:41 AM
Did you not see that metro 911 was calling the guard? It says several times that the phone rang 7 times before the guard answered. Not everything is intentional and I am sure they did not mean for this to happen.

Posted by: WV PEOPLE R A JOKE! on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:38 AM
I have never seen such too faced people. No wonder business is taken to other states. When I got the call about shelter in place it was hour and a half, before that my mother called and told me the situation. That night I saw a offical on the television talking about the situation and never mentioned about sheltering in place. People say what a wonderful job taken by the people over the situation that occured. Now its almost a week and you people are harping and complaining what a terrible job that they have done. I think that this company and so many other companys should pack up and get out of town and let people like you complain about the workers getting laid off apply for welfare and medical cards. I would hope that companys look at the situation and think you have 47 other states that would appricate these jobs and take it to them. People know when you live in a area like the CHEMICAL VALLEY thats a part of a chance. Now where are the lawyers standing with there pens and papers.

Posted by: Confused on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:12 AM
So if Bayer was contacting Metro 911 by other means, then why was their guard calling an emergency line to give Metro non-information? Should that guard be held responsible for tying up a non-emergency line during a crisis? Bayer's excuse, er statement, is lacking crucial details like, for example, the truth.

Posted by: Rich on Sep 5, 2008 at 05:34 AM
Dont worry Kent Carper will save us each and everyone Kent Carper to the RESCUE!!!!

Posted by: SA resident2 on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:17 PM
To Michael- No company has the right to endanger lives no matter what!! I was listening to a scanner the from 10:40 to about 12:30am. Metro repeatedly tried to reach company officials at the fire chief request and admitted no one from the company would respond for more than an hour except the security guard. Later when the company rep. finally got there they didn't even have the correct info sheets and fire reps. had to have the correct ones faxed to even verify what the chemicals were more than 1-2hr later. It was a God given miracle no one else died and this VERY IRRESPONSIBLE company was solely to blame. I hope no one takes this as lightly as Michael because there was more. Next time these same BAYER officials are in charge of an emergency in this area I feel confident they will kill us - but of course it won't be their fault!!

Posted by: Nate to "t" and others on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:12 PM
What gives them the right? Because they are trained PROFESSIONALS, not someone that gets their socks off when their little pager goes off. They are PROFESSIONALS who were fighting the fire, and not being a certain news anchors "source", they are trained PROFESSIONALS who were trying to help two of their brothers instead of taking video with cellphones. THATS WHY THEY TRY TO HANDLE IT THEMSELVES AND NOT HAVE VFD INSIDE THE PLANT.

Posted by: Stewart on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:59 PM
Thanks for the excellent footage. I will use it for training purposes at the chemical complex I work at. Many of us in the chemical industry work daily to insure these type of things do not happen. Pray for us.

Posted by: Mark on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:23 PM
t, Chemical plants have highly trained emergency personell that are trained on the chemicals at the plants. There is no one in the community more trained to deal with chemical emergencies than the plant crews. They have full authority to handle their emergencies. The shift supervisor acts as the incident commander and should have made the call in my opinion. Why is my opinion important? I am a chemical engineer who worked in the Methomyl Larvin unit in the mid 90's and now I work for an engineering firm helping the plant out post incident.

Posted by: t on Sep 4, 2008 at 06:30 PM
I read teh transcripts..are you kidding me? What gives the Bayer plant authority to handle their own situation, keep important info from the emergency personnel, and the public? I hope the plant in my home town area are more responsible and open with authorities. Things could have been much worse. And for them to have the poor guard be the go-between so the higher-ups didn't have to answer any questions! Irresponsible and frightening. Can we really trust these big plants with our safety? If they want to live and be in our communties then they should have to have open communication with the authorities and the public in a time of emergency.

Posted by: Michael on Sep 4, 2008 at 06:14 PM
I do not understand why people are so upset about the Bayer incident. If the incident was life threatening to people on the ouside perimiter of the plant they would have notified the 911 center for people to shelter in place. This company means alot to our community and provides alot of jobs. The people of this community need to stop complaining. Every man and woman knows the risk of working in these chemical plants. We need these companys in WV because there are no new companys here.

Posted by: Valley on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:04 AM
I realize that the chemical plants feed most of our Kan Valley economy, but does that give them the right to poison us? Kill us? Where is the Health Dept? Oh yeah, they are busy writing warnings to bars that ignore their smoking ban.

Posted by: SA Res on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:01 AM
The emergency whistle did not go off until ONE HOUR AFTER the explosion. This is totally unacceptable. I was out in the yard inspecting the house when I should have been inside with a shelter in place.

Posted by: T on Sep 2, 2008 at 09:00 PM
I work at one of the chemical plants in the valley. Not once during this incident was I worried. The folks who work in these units are trained professionals...they know what to do. I commend all the responders as well. I live within 2-3 miles of Bayer, and was never concerned. My condolences to the Withrow family, and I hope the other gentleman makes a full recovery. For those of you who are disgruntled at chemical plants, please remember that these plants produce things that make YOUR everyday living possible. If you don't like it, then give up your cars, the paint in your house, let the weeds grow up all around your house...forget about your Nike tennis shoes and the clothes you wear. Forget about the containers that your food is stored in at the grocery stores as well. Go get a goat, a horse, a plow, lots of pigs and cattle and chickens, and a horse drawn carriage...because without the chemical plants, you're gonna need all those items to have a sustainable life!

Posted by: wvmom on Sep 2, 2008 at 02:21 AM
to anon at 3:05.... Thanks for posting that. I'm glad the firefighters were all ok. And it's good to know that the workers were looking out for you guys too! Makes me proud to be a west virginian.

Posted by: Afflicted on Sep 1, 2008 at 08:56 AM
My thoughts and prayers go out to the withrow and oxley families. My wife's father was the one guy to lose his life in a plant explosion when she was a child in another state. So I can still see what effects this has on the families.

Posted by: anonymous on Sep 1, 2008 at 03:05 AM
i was one of the firemen at the scene, n id jus like to send my thanks out to the bayer coorperation...they did an amazing job informing us what we were going into and what to expect and what they thought had happened so we could be more careful. they also took extraordinary steps to make sure that everything was safe in the area...there was people rushing into that plant to make sure everything was safe for the surrunding area and not worrying about themselves, the true heroes are the workers in the plant...and my condolences go out to the family of Mr. Withrow, and i wish the best to Mr. Oxley and his family

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 1, 2008 at 01:29 AM
what a terrible thing to happen. Be nice.

Posted by: Samantha K on Aug 31, 2008 at 10:12 PM
Seriously guys, shut up! To James, so you woke up. I did to! I was upset that they woke me up but I am not complaining about it. If you want, sue them! I am sure with the lawsuits here in the great state of WV you could prob win in a court of law! Go for it, wait thats a good idea. Maybe I'll sue as well. They shouldnt be working at night. They need to close down shop so that if an accident occurs it will be during the day when most people are awake. Shame on them for blowing the factory up so late at night. James, you may have a point. Remember though, a live was lost.

Posted by: Pam on Aug 31, 2008 at 09:27 PM
We just returned from Barry Withrow's visitation service at our church. There were well over 1,000 people there. Barry was so loved by so many people! This is a huge loss for our church. Please pray for the children at Cross Lanes Baptist Church. They loved Barry and Barry loved them. Continue to pray for the entire family. They really are doing extremely well and guess what they are not blaming ANYONE!!!!

Posted by: Fred on Aug 31, 2008 at 06:48 PM
Yall need to know your role, and shut your mouth.

Posted by: anonymous on Aug 31, 2008 at 05:49 PM
WHY THE SLANDER,WHY THE HATE,WHY A PERSON HAS PASSED AND ANOTHER INJURED BADLY AND ALL PEOPLE CAN DO IS SLAM,AND HATE EACH OTHER AND DOING THE BLAME GAME.BE RESPECTFUL DURING THIS TIME AND LET THE FACTORY CONDUCT IT"S INSPECTION WITHOUT THE SLANDER,CHEMICALS ARE VERY DANGEROUS AND NEED NOT TO BE MESSED WITH AND ACCIDENTS DO HAPPENBUT PLEASE STOP THE BASHING.

Posted by: tony on Aug 31, 2008 at 05:11 PM
has anyone asked if this was near the MIC process or piping,I know that it does run in the pipe rack without any speical protection other than labeled.donot pubish my name.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 31, 2008 at 12:56 AM
In response to the post by Henry: I highly doubt that if it weren't for the industry in WV, you would have much of a reason to stay here. In case you forgot, America was made from industry and farming.

Posted by: Friend on Aug 31, 2008 at 12:02 AM
Did you all see the web extra on the top? They have video of when the explosin happened. Someone rude man said "Someone blew the h--- outta something" Such rude people, they didnt even bother to call 911.

Posted by: Sue on Aug 30, 2008 at 11:41 PM
Our thoughts are with the families of Barry Withrow and Bill Oxley. May GOD be with them and give them the strength they will need to get through this.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 11:40 PM
"Posted by: James on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:28 PM Stupid explosin woke me up last night! I had to get up at 7am. I mean, how am I do get my sleep when people are mixing chemicals and creating explosions late at night. Cant they do this during the day? Had it been me making such a racket I'd be in jail. Next time, be more considerate of others and be quiet during normal sleeping hours. My condolences to the one who died. May the one who was hurt, have a speedy recoverly." that shows how stupid you are if that was planned then no one would of gotten hurt our prayers go out to the families involved with the workers

Posted by: This Person on Aug 30, 2008 at 11:30 PM
Im very sorry and my prayers go to these families.. God Bless

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 09:21 PM
oh get a life Katty. No one cares whose land it used to be. If you don't like it, pack up your cock roaches and get out

Posted by: Henry on Aug 30, 2008 at 07:51 PM
The statement about toxins raining down is true. We were here first and these people pollut our great state!

Posted by: A friend on Aug 30, 2008 at 07:13 PM
Barry was a great man of God and leaves behind a legacy to the many children he worked with at CLBC. We will all miss him, but he would gladly have given his life if it helps even one person understand God's saving grace.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 06:40 PM
Has anyone heard how the other worker is doing....My prayers go out to both the families and all the workers that were there and their families. This makes you think how dangerous these men and women work in everyday..... God bless you.

Posted by: daughter of a Bayer Plant employee on Aug 30, 2008 at 04:05 PM
my father worked with both of the men that this tragic accident happened to. He had just left the plant a little over an hour before the larvin unit explosion, he was working with both of the men. I had only seen Barry a few times as he was friends with my Uncle and my father. we had a tragedy in our family 5 months ago and then again a week ago and Barry was right there for our family. He was a great man and was very caring for his friends as well as his family as i understand. I have to let the family know that i am very sorry for your loss, my father said Barry was a great man.. to the burn victims family, i hope that things come through for you. and last to the people who make remarks about toxins raining down on you, and stating that we made national news- do you honestly not have a heart to realize that a man LOST HIS LIFE!!! how inconsiderate can you be. My father and uncle left before anything happened but they lost a friend and wonderful co-worker, and i am hurt for them.

Posted by: Daniel from yesterday on Aug 30, 2008 at 05:39 AM
My prayers are with the families of Mr. Withrow and the families of the burned operator in Pittsburg, I hope for a speedy recovery. As for Barry he is worshiping at the foot of Jesus, his Master, his Savior he is at peace. May God bring this peace to all the families involved. Others that are in my prayers are the fire brigade members that worked late into the hours Friday morning trying to get this beast under control. Emergency Responders go in when others are leaving. With the experience of Barry I'm sure he worked with the situation and didn't leave because he thaught he could get it under control. Maybe he had seen similar situations. This accident will be burned into the memories of all those involved, the emergency squad, those who has worked with him and the other injured operator and years later those horrible thoughts will be as fresh as if it happened yesterday. I've been there and live that daily. May God bring pease and comfort to all as only he can.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 03:28 AM
To anonymous 10:44 thank you very much. Do you know if he was working at that time?

Posted by: Katty on Aug 30, 2008 at 02:48 AM
In response to Stephanie that wrote, "Regarding anonymous WV thanks for rainig toxic material down on me & my family. Theres no place like home...THEN MOVE AWAY NO ONE IS MAKING YOU STAY HERE!" Guess what? Our families were here before the plant was built. Why should they give up their home when they were here first? That area that the plant is on was my great uncle's land. If he had only known what was gonna happen... My condolences to the family of Barry Withrow.

Posted by: BFS anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 02:05 AM
The name of the injured one is Bill Oxley. Please keep his family in your prayers. I'm sorry, Chris.

Posted by: To James on Aug 30, 2008 at 12:31 AM
Sir, I understand you were upset. I am glad though that you were considerate enough to send your condilences. Most people on here would rather argue. Someone died and you realized that. Your a class act my friend. People need to read all of the post not the first few sentences. I know people have trouble in WV when it comes to reading.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 12:14 AM
Please dont complain about how dangerous it is and how you dont like that they house dangerous chemicals that could hurt you. This is how you live... you have used those chemicals in your home. If you worry about MIC move. Its that simple. Pack up your bags quit your job and move. Its that simple. If you dont like something change it dont complain about it. The workers support their families making the products that you use everyday with chemicals some deadly. We all take that chance ourselves living in the valley. We get scared when there is a mishap but dont think about when its over and that we are still alive. They check the tanks and make sure everything is working correctly but there are accidents. No one or nothing is perfect. Expect that in life. If always expect that everything is perfect you have a false reality of life and how things work here on earth. They did a great job under the pressure they were in and I would do anything to thank Bayer for caring about us!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 30, 2008 at 12:06 AM
To my community...please do not degrade and think of yourself when you say they didnt do it fast enough to suit YOUR wants. When you mother is having a heart attack with you sitting right there...do you pick up the phone and call 100 family members or do you take care of your mother and do what you need to do to save her life then call everyone. They will ask you the questions what caused her to have the heart attack why did she have it what time did she have it where was she when she had it. Same things with the guys last night...explosion. They take care of trying not to make things worse and take care of the injured before it spreads and makes things worse and spreads to other tanks that do house deadly chemicals. They did you a favor as fast as they could and they did a GREAT job. Please stop thinking of your own wants and how it did not suit you. They had a job to do to protect you...but more important THEIR FAMILIES not just YOU!!! Great job guys!!! Thank you!!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:58 PM
In defense of all who helped out especially the DOT. As some stated they shouldnt have been concerned with the roads. Think of it this way. In an earth quake does it not damage roads. Same as an explosion. It caused damage to houses and could cause damage to roads. They are only thinking about our safety. Bayer was as well. I am proud to say I live in such a wonderful community who looks out for all of us... the good and the bad. I saw the blast... I felt the blast... and I saw Saint Albans police respond in seconds. Our emergency response teams look out for their community and including the DOT. Please stop and look at the whole picture...including the picture of working at the bayer plant and having tragedy strike. What if that was you??? What if you knew someone there???? What if that was your family???? Praise the workers and the responders they did an amazing job under such stress!!! Community stop acting so negative and thinking of yourself. Think of them!!!!

Posted by: 3rd Shift EMT at a plant. on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:16 PM
James Are you truely that inconsiderate...That was about as selfish as one could get...Next time I'm sure they will check with you before they blow up their plant and someone looses their life. Good God man get a life.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:44 PM
To anonymous at at 7:52 pm, Joseph Stowers was not the name of the worker that was burned.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:29 PM
Wow that video shows just how big it really was. That ought to be on CNN

Posted by: Nate to JAMES on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:55 PM
YOUR AND IDIOT! Guess what?? There were men putting their lives on the line from 1030 last night till late in the evening hours Friday! You think they were thinking about sleep? NO..they were worried about their co-workers and yea you guessed it..thats someones husband, brother, dad, son...Get a life..Im sure you just had to get up to do something useless anyway.

Posted by: Roger & Dana on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:36 PM
Our families became combined many years ago and our hearts are hurting, grieving for the death of Barry! WE pray God's peace, love and hope blanket the entire Withrow Family, your church family and all who have come to know Barry. Don, GiGi, Michael, girls, Aleisha, Bill & family, Chris, Sue & family-we love you and are so very sorry.

Posted by: Sarah on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:32 PM
I woke up to, James! Alot of people did, but you know what, stop complaining! You had to get up at 7am, well I had to get up at 5am! I got no sleep and had to work all day. James, some people (Like I) have it worse then you do so think next time.

Posted by: phyllis on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:48 PM
this accident scared a lot of the people on my street. i was at wal-mart and didn't hear a thing till my grandaughter called me.our prayers are with the families.

Posted by: Meg on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:46 PM
We know the Withrow family and our toughts & prayers go out to his wife, daughters, and family. It's hard to believe he's gone. He's a great father and will be missed on the soccer field.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:52 PM
Does anyone know the name of the person that was burned, does anyone know if Joesph Stowers was working on that night.. May God be with everyone in the plant that night.. It must have been a very trying time... God be with all the families.......

Posted by: Anyomous on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:47 PM
Barry Withrow's daughters go to my school I haven't met either but, please keep that whole family in your prayers

Posted by: to James at 5:28 pm on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:53 PM
Are you serious??? All you care about is whether or not you got enough sleep??? My father and brothers works in this plant and could have been killed. One man was killed and another seriously injured and all you can think about is sleep? Get a life!

Posted by: James on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:28 PM
Stupid explosin woke me up last night! I had to get up at 7am. I mean, how am I do get my sleep when people are mixing chemicals and creating explosions late at night. Cant they do this during the day? Had it been me making such a racket I'd be in jail. Next time, be more considerate of others and be quiet during normal sleeping hours. My condolences to the one who died. May the one who was hurt, have a speedy recoverly.

Posted by: jennifer on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:21 PM
I saw the cnn blurb as it scrolled across the bottom of the screen this morning and called my grandmother who lives just outside the shelter in place area in Scott Depot, WV to find out and to make sure she is okay. Mine and my fiance's hearts go out to those families affected by this tragedy.

Posted by: Danny on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:57 PM
Does anyone know the condition of the other person injured? is he going to be ok? Prayers be with this family also.

Posted by: help on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:56 PM
This is to UNKNOW REPORTER. The plant hasn't hired that many emloyees, because they can't find anyone in the valley that can pass a basic skills test.

Posted by: Miss M on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:51 PM
All night while sitting in our Jeep in Hurricane waiting for the shelter in place to lift so we could go home all I could think about is that poor wife who lost her husband and the one who found out hers' had gotten badly burned. My thoughts and prayers are with those families tonight.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:50 PM
I believe we failed the test. If the the chemicals involved in last night's explosion were fatal we would have all died before they could figure out what it was. They should have released the information of the chemicals that was in the area, and treated as a worse possible case sceniro. The shelter in place should have been imediate, not an hour and a half later. It is now the next day and they still can't come clean. How disturbing this is to all the people of WV. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the deceased and injured. I can't even imagine your pain. God Bless.

Posted by: Union Proud!! on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:22 PM
From one Union Proud Family to another, we are deeply sorry for the life lost at the Bayer Plant last night. And our hearts go out to Barry's family & friends. Our prayers are being sent to the gentleman in the Burn Unit. God Bless!

Posted by: Angie on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:15 PM
To Anonymous @ 11:47 am. I really have to disagree with you about Gov. Manchin. He isn't owned by anyone, with the exception of maybe his wife. I watched his interview this morning on the news. He looked very tired after being in Denver and had to be driven from Clarksburg to Charleston because they couldn't land locally. Yet where did he go? He went to the scene of the disaster. He didn't go home and go to bed and wait til morning to make a statement. He did it this morning BEFORE daylight. He also sat with family members in a little country church in Buckhannon WV when the Sago mine exploded. I think Gov. Manchin is the best governor this state has had in a very long time.

Posted by: Billy Keen on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:38 PM
From the west side of Charleton Last night I heard a big Bang, At first it sound like a cannon-gun or some type of a gun, but I never thought of Expploson. My thoughts a nd prayer are with the victims.. AND A BIG THANKS TO TIM IRR,JESSICA AND ALL THE NEWS TEAM FOR Keep us well informed

Posted by: M on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:26 PM
First of all my thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Barry Withrow and the man injured in the fire. I also hope that the firefighter taken to the hospital is doing well also. Thanks to WSAZ for responding so quickly. Within minutes of the explosion you had already posted it on the website and continued to update when you were given the information. You were the only news channel that continued coverage of this disaster throughout the night. However I do believe that the Bayer Corp is trying to cover something up because there have been so many conflicting stories. I just hope that our government officials will investigate this tragedy and find out what is to blame and take action. Also to Bayer Corp do you honestly think that any halfway intelligent person believes that there were no chemicals released into the air? A little honesty would be nice from a corporation every once and a while.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:25 PM
The Kanawha Valley is more danderous then any other city in the US. Its just a matter of time before a Bhopal type accident happens. They have the same stuff over at those plants and in higher quantities. The stuff that could be released is deadly. I know a person died and that is really trajic, but imajine if the entire cities of Dunbar, Institute, south charleston, and st albans all took casualties. It happened at the India plant it can happen here too.

Posted by: concerned on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:52 PM
Methyl isocyanate (MIC) is an organic compound with the molecular formula C2H3NO, arranged as H3C-N=C=O. Synonyms are isocyanatomethane, methyl carbylamine, and MIC. It was discovered in 1888 as an ester of isocyanic acid. Methyl isocyanate is an intermediate chemical in the production of carbamate pesticides (such as carbaryl, carbofuran, methomyl, and aldicarb). It has also been used in the production of rubbers and adhesives. As a highly toxic and irritating material, it is hazardous to human health, and was involved in the Bhopal disaster which killed nearly 3,800 people initially and approximately 20,000 people in total.

Posted by: Volunteer FireFighter on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:37 PM
Once again a major fire going on, fireman risking there lives. And what do we have again. Chuck Runyon Mr. Dot2 worries about the roads being closed. Who Hired this guy. He needs to worry about pot holes, and the yellow and white lines on the highway and stop coming onto fire scenes.

Posted by: mike on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:09 PM
i have to say that i was totally impressed not only by the continuing coverage WSAZ gave, but by the reaction of the head of the plant, that Wey guy.... he was truly compassionate when he spoke about the explosion, injuries and the loss of life (our prayers go out to the families. it's good to see that they're already taking the right steps in providing PTSD debriefings too...PTSD can really ruin people.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:55 PM
This was heard in East Bank, is was distant but still heard as a boom.

Posted by: Kyle on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Dont blame me, people were saying that the national news was only talking about Obama. So I saw that clip and posted it to prove them wrong!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:19 PM
I'm usually the first to hack on WSAZ's reporting skills, but I give them kudos for the coverage last night. My dad works at the plant and it was reassuring to see that WSAZ was on top of the breaking story. My thoughts and prayers are with the Withrow family and the family of the burn victim.

Posted by: cosmo on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:50 PM
My family's and myself, our thoughts and prayers to all those affected by this disaster, may you God be with you...

Posted by: Teresa on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:10 PM
My thought and prayers go out to the families and employees of Bayer. Accidents are unfortunate but happen in everyday life whether it be at a Chemical facility or driving to work. West Virgina-the Kanawha Valley is no more hazardous that any city in the US. West Virginia are a proud community. Pray for your friends in their time of need.

Posted by: Lookinaround on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Hey has anyone else noticed if you do a search on the wsaz website for Bayer that there was an newcast on 8/6/08 for Bayer Expanding Production in Institute. Then 23 days later this happens, kidda sounds funny to me.

Posted by: Unknown on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:55 AM
In the 6:48 interview they did state it was a vessel however in the interview there shortly after it was stated the cause was unknown. We will never know the truth I am sure, Bayer seems to find a way to cover up everything.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:47 AM
While I do not consider myself a conspiracy theorist or an ignorant person, I am a college student who has been terrified to live in such an industrialized, once beautiful, city and county where dangerous man made chemicals are made and stored knowing something like this (or on a much larger scale) could not only happen, but the media could either be deceived or forced to not tell us the truth about what is happening. A lot of major corporations seem to see Appalachian people as disposable. The coal industry (along with our government officials such as Gov. Manchin who are practically owned by such profiteering corporations) have exploited the health and land of West Virginia people for a very long long time. Our rivers are polluted, our air is some of the worst in the country, our mountains being blown apart by mountaintop removal coal mining and we are completed bogged down by chemical companies making and storing god only know what. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methyl_isocyanat

Posted by: To Jim on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:39 AM
Do you have a brother? If you do and he died in a explosion would you want people to make comments like you did? I think it would be best if you never spoke again!

Posted by: Stephanie on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Regarding anonymous WV thanks for rainig toxic material down on me & my family. Theres no place like home...THEN MOVE AWAY NO ONE IS MAKING YOU STAY HERE!

Posted by: chris on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:33 AM
To J you said it right! I think alot of it is people want it to be worse. Just like when you break a arm after it gets around next thing you know you lost your arm!

Posted by: Daniel on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:21 AM
In the 6:48 interview the Plant offical indicated the over pressuring of a vessel. Was there an unwanted reaction in this vessel, if so why didn't the pressure relief devices take care of the pressure before the tank or vessel seperated. Also the vessel should have been monitored for pressure and there should have been a do not exceed pressure where the unit could have been taken down safely. Was this vessel a normal tank or a pressure vessel? There should have been warnings that there was a problem before the vessel blew apart!

Posted by: Bayer Operator on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:58 AM
Chris Olson's 6 am report was a disgrace to the profession of journalism, and in particular to the normally high standards set by WSAZ. To Chris: You stated in your report that the plant fire crew "didn't know how to fieght this fire or where it was going to go". That could not be further from the truth. Our fire brigade -- which are mostly volunteer hourly workers, that is to say operators or maintenance workers -- are as professional as any firfighter in the state. Your efforts to sensationalize this story makes a terribly sad situation more so.

Posted by: Jason on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:53 AM
Kyle your an idiot if thats all I could think to say I would have just kept my mouth shut... We will be praying for the family members lost and the lives that will forever be changed.

Posted by: Billy on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:48 AM
"I was walking to my dorm on campus and I saw a big fireball and the sky lit orange. "I thought it was a nuke..." If it was you would'nt be on the internet EMP? Speculation leads to hysteria, in the future you all should think before typing and let the real experts provide real information about whats going on.

Posted by: Rose on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:47 AM
This was a blast that rocked the community around the Bayer plant. I have lived in Dunbar for over 30 years and have been through previous events at the chemical plants. I thought with the new homeland security that things had improved dramatically -- and it has improved some. However it was a long time before anyone could find out if a chemical was being released and/or what that chemical might be. It took 2 hrs before we received a call from 911 advising of a shelter in place (12:30 a.m.) I live right in the center of the town of Dunbar and I never did hear a siren alert. I am concerned about the slow reaction, if it had been a deadly chemical release and not being able to hear a siren alert. I am also so very sorry that a man was killed and another seriously injured. I would like to thank WSAZ because you were the only TV station that stayed on the air continually with updates. Thanks so much for your concern for the community.

Posted by: Laid Off Employee on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:37 AM
I started out at the Plant with Barry and will miss him a lot. We had some great times at work and thats what made working there in the old days fun. They were exciting times fo us and we all were proud to be a part of Union Carbide. The plant has now lost so many experienced people that it is a very sad situation. Barry was a great guy and it will hurt for a long time. My sympathy goes to his family. And yes that tank is very toxic and I hope all in there are going to be ok.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 10:12 AM
I think that the siresn should go off as soon as there is an explosion not 45 minutes later! Do we know the name of the burn victim? My prayers are with the Withrow family!

Posted by: Shannon on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:56 AM
My thoughts and prayers are with Barry Withrow's family and the unknown family of the injured worker. I pray that God gives you peace and strength during this most difficult time. God Bless You

Posted by: Leila on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:47 AM
Talk about a panic! We are on the west side of Charleston and felt the explosion. I can't imagine the fear that the residents of Institute felt, much less the student residents at WVSU who are pretty much right beside the plant. It took a while for the news to get ahold of it but I was thankful once they did. I called my father immediately after it happened and asked him to turn on his scanner. We heard every bit that was going on, the action the rescue workers, firefighters, and officers took was lightning fast. I just wish it was more important than Obama's speech. I am not anti-Obama, I am pro-WV however and the fact that it took so long to notify residents of Institute that they needed to shelter in place was astonishing. My father and I were shocked that only one newsteam got to it while the other was just reporting news like nothing was going on. I hope everyone made it through alright and the best recovery for the injured man, and condolences for the family of the deceased.

Posted by: Unknown Reporter on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:38 AM
Isn't this interesting. If anyone has noticed Bayer has been hiring a lot lately. This is because they are so short staffed, their employee's are overwhelmed with overtime and they are working 18 hours shifts. On top of this they are training new people for 10 days only and then putting them to work with chemicals, do you think this is really enough training? The people they are hiring don't even have degree's and no experience is required. Bayer what are you doing? Another mistake and you could really hurt a lot more people. It is time we hold this company accountable and not just let them buy their way out.

Posted by: To John on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:33 AM
You live in the Chas WV are of course you have trouble breathing!

Posted by: KimmyLou on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:15 AM
I live about 15 mintues away; Rt21 on Sissonville Drive. My family and neighbors heard the explosion.

Posted by: J on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:14 AM
Mike at 11:59 is the only person on here that has any common sense evidently. He said: "WHY DON'T THE NEWS PEOPLE HAVE MASKS ON? IT MUST NOT BE THAT SERIOUS". Exactly, use common sense people. You sound like a herd of frightened cattle the way you go on. If you really thought it was that serious, what are you doing sitting on the internet posting comments about it instead of doing something to protect yourself. People are always quick to blame emergency responders but you need to take some initiative for your own security first.

Posted by: CONCERNED on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:10 AM
Wow! This should be a big wake up call! Our days are numbered people...If the plant would have blown completely up, that would have blown WV off the map!!

Posted by: Mark on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:04 AM
I was an engineer in the Methomyl unit when an explosion happened on August 18, 1993. One person was killed in that explosion (not instantly) and another survived with decreased lung capacity. Now another happens in the same unit within 10 days of exactly 15 years later. I work somewhere else now, but suspect something thermally decomposed. Methanol, Larving and the some of the raw materials and waste are thermally unstable and can't be heated. I would not be surprised if that is what happened. This incident is in a different part of the unit from the one in 1993. May God bless the Withrow family.

Posted by: Anne on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:00 AM
To John who is having trouble breathing.. go get you a good lawyer, if one hasn't already been knocking your door down, just like all the other losers who "have trouble breathing" or get sick when something happens at one of our chemical plants. Never fails. Pray for the Withrow family and for the family of the man who got burnt so badly.

Posted by: anon on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:53 AM
my husband works there its a dangerous place my my thoughts r with the family god bless

Posted by: Pam on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:50 AM
My husband who works at the plant said the burn victim is Bill Oxley. Pray for his family!!!

Posted by: Jen on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:36 AM
So they say its safe... I'm concerned because I live in Hurricane but the fog has a different tinge to it and my eyes are itching like crazy. To me if these bi products mixed during the explosion there would have been some sort of chemical released.. Scary.

Posted by: steve on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:34 AM
How terrible this is. To the Family We are behind you and we will be praying for you.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 08:32 AM
Just another reason more people will get cancer with the air quality bad already, more chemicals in the air!

Posted by: Lisa on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:58 AM
I;ve seen reference to the map of the shelter in place. Does anyone know how far that reached? I felt the explosion at my house, up on Corridor G. But no sirens, etc.

Posted by: The Fields' on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:44 AM
Our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Barry Withrow, and to the family and friends of the injured worker. God will be there and He will help these families endure their sorrow following this tradgic accident.

Posted by: MLB on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:36 AM
The Angels are rejoicing in receiving another great soul. May God protect, Bless, and give comfort to the family members.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:30 AM
I live in Davis Creek (South Charleston) Area and my husband and myself felt it. He thought it was thunder and I thought it was a meth lab explosion (given the area we live in you would understand my thoughts) but none the less I assured him it was not thunder and something else happened. My family who lives on Kanawha Turnpike however did not feel anything. How weird is that! Hope everyone else is ok from the explosion sorry to hear of a lost life. Thoughts are with the family at this time. Nice job news sites, metro and all emergency workers on quick actions.

Posted by: THANK U on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:14 AM
I want to say great job to all the emergency worker's who were on the scene. with so many big chemical plants her in the valley by reading all the updates it was undercontrol very fast. i figured no one would get in and out of charleston this moring when i came to work @ 4.am such a disater as this it went pretty well considering how long things were shut down a few weeks ago on the turnpike over a truck wreck this was bigger than that and they cleared it up faster emergency workers are great people and some of u may think diffrent that lives in the area because of the delays on shelter and wondering what u may be breating. i would too but lets thank the emergency crews GREAT JOB !!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Joyce Fink on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:14 AM
I wanted to say that this is horrible and my haert goes out to the families of the two brothers,May God bless you..

Posted by: john on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:09 AM
hats off to wsaz you guys stayed with the story while everyone else just went along like nothing happened... keep up the good work..

Posted by: Ann A on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:00 AM
To WSAZ, If people are forced into shelters, that means the air is not trusted. Why are you standing so close to get video . That is not fair to your families. If that was my husband, I would drive right up there, and trust me it would not be pretty in front of his colleagues. If there is a dangerous situation we do not need to see it, and if you have to put a camera up and get the heck out of there.

Posted by: C on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:52 AM
Take 2 aspirin and call us in the morning

Posted by: Gina on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:46 AM
How come everytime there is an explosion or leak or green haze, it's ALWAYS perfectly safe. We live in a chemical valley. There are harmful chemicals here. HELLO!!!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:43 AM
nO ONE CARES ANYMORE ABOUT ANYTHING THAT DOESN'T HURT OR CONCERN THEM DIRECTLY! IF IT WAS THERE DAD OR BROTHER IN THIS EXPLOSION THEY WOULD BE ON HERE WONDERING HOW SOMEONE COULD BE SO MEAN AS TO NOT CARE ABOUT THEM OR THIER FAMILY ! i HOPE EVERYONE IS SAFE AND THAT THE LOSS SOME MUST BARE IS AS EASY AS CAN BE !

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:38 AM
I LIVE IN NITRO AND HEARD ON THE NEWS THIS MORNING. MY HEART IS BROKEN FOR THE WITHROW FAMILY. PRAISE THE LORD THIS BROTHER IS IN HEAVEN NOW, BUT WHAT A LOSS TO THE FAMILY AND CHURCH FAMILY. MAY WE ALL BE READY TO MEET THE LORD, WE NEVER KNOW WHEN HE WILL CALL OUR NAME. MAY THE MAN WHO WAS BURNED HEAL QUICKLY AND ALL THAT ARE INVOLVED. WSAZ IS THE BEST IN REPORTING AND DOING IT WITH INTEGRITY.

Posted by: Ryan on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:32 AM
What the heck is the matter with you people? I had to come here to find out WHAT exploded and I still don't have an answer WHY. The TV spot this morning about 6:20 didn't address either question at all. What kind of journalists talk about a huge fireball and the ground shaking but don't tell us what caused it, what was released, and why it happened?! Is Bayer not talking? At least tell us Bayer isn't talking so we can be mad at another rotten corporation for their negligence. Don't just ignore the questions. Come on WSAZ...we the people expect better out of our journalists.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:32 AM
My heart goes out to the families and to the good people that live near there. I really hope not, but I find it strange that Bayer CropScience recently hit the news. And that it had to do with their insecticides. Something about how they've known for ten years that their product was hazardous to honey bees and covered it up. Now the very plant that makes the stuff goes up "like a bomb" as someone else put it. I'm not having trouble breathing, and I smell something fishy! Peace!

Posted by: Anon on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:21 AM
How ignorant can people be? Jim, who posted a comment at 2:43 a.m., must be insane. None of this is something to joke about. A life has been lost. I'm glad to know that Mr. Withrow knew the Lord. I'll see him in heaven one day. God bless you family. Our prayers are going up for each of you.

Posted by: CATHY on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:08 AM
Does anyone know the name of the person flown to Pittsburgh? I have friend who work there.

Posted by: to KYLE!!! and every other ridiculous comment on here... on Aug 29, 2008 at 06:00 AM
you know, a family just lost a father, a brother, a husband, etc. and you're all excited about making national news?? geez! it's ignorant people like you and the others that give WV a bad name! maybe try finishing school or even maybe opening a book once in a while and maybe even attempt to educate yourself. who knows, maybe it's just not your fault, never is for people like you, huh? im sure glad that wasn't one of your family members that was burnt or killed. that would sure suck! now lets see how many comments WSAZ will receive on account of your stupidity and ignorance! someone help this kid! good job on the timely reports wsaz!

Posted by: Pam James on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:57 AM
Barry Withrow was a wonderful man and now he is in Heaven celebrating!! We go to church with Barry at CLBC and you couldn't ask for a better person. He works with the children at church and is always involved in mission projects. When he started working in Awana with the kids, he was labeled the "Game Dude" This is a big loss for his family and church family! My husband works as an engineer at the plant and the first person I thought about was Barry.One of our first memories of Barry was having him and his family over for dinner and we introduced them to Mexican Train Dominoes. We had a ball!! Mikeal and girls we love you all and are here for you. Please everyone pray for the entire Withrow family and Barry's church family.

Posted by: Kendall on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:54 AM
WSAZ Thank you for being there for all of us . All the rest of the stations stopped reporting by 11:45pm but you all kept us updated and stayed on the air alot longer . Thank you WSAZ!!

Posted by: PG on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:37 AM
They say its safe but coming home from work this morning I can smell a very weird smell in the air so is it really safe. My prayers to the family of Barry Withrow

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 05:21 AM
So sorry for the loss of life. And he was working overtime :( May God bless his friends and family in their time of grief and sorrow.

Posted by: To no avail... on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:53 AM
As residents of our State Capital, must we continually be in fear of this exact scenario. Everyone is in a panic and with good reason. I have family throughout the State, and many are diagnosised with varied degrees of respestory problems. WV ranks high in respestory disease ailments which we all know can be directly linked to man-made environmental factors. The potential for an accidental release, hazardous or not, is always apparent. We must demand our government officials take action to mandate these chemical industries improve their public contingency and environmental controls, i.e. recurrent informational campaigns and possibly provide all residents within a determined radius with household and personal hazmat kits. We continue to allow special interests and Corp. profits to come before our families health and well-being. It's time to all decide what we plan to leave our children...

Posted by: Angela on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:48 AM
My prayers to you and your family during this sad time, Chris. I am so very sorry for your loss.

Posted by: Katty on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:46 AM
They say it's safe out, but where's that cloud gonna land? Let them keep telling us how safe the plant is.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:29 AM
The missing person has been found and is dead. I know this because I am a family member. So all of you please pray for my family and keep all negative responses to yourself as we deal with this tragedy.

Posted by: Chris on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:09 AM
THe missing person was Barry Withrow of Saint Albans. It has been confirmed through the family, I'm his brother, he is deceased. Please pray us as we go through this tough time. He was a great man and will be missed.

Posted by: anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:01 AM
Will this affect the Drinking Water in the areas?

Posted by: Josh on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:29 AM
Someone please get info on the missing person please.............

Posted by: E. on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:27 AM
Metro just recently raised the Shelter in Place. The cloud of ... chemicals has moved along. Just so you know ...

Posted by: Kyle on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:27 AM
We made national news boys! http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080829/ap_on_bi_ge/plant_explosion Congrats, good to see us on the national news for this event.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:22 AM
Our phone didn't ring and alert us of the shelter in place until after midnight which was almost two hours after the fact

Posted by: Tired on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:06 AM
I work in Charleston and was there when this happened. I did not see or hear anything. I left work approx 2 am and live in Teays Valley. I cannot determine how much of it is smoke and how much is fog but some places on the interstate, was almost like a white out. Visibility is really poor. Typically when there is an odor or haze it doesnt reach to Teays Valley but if anything tonight it seems to get worse past Institute. Teays Valley was the worst part of it. The smoke/fog had a musty odor but was not irritating to me although I had my vents off and windows rolled up. But again I have never seen visibility so poor in my life, including snow storms.

Posted by: Jim on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:43 AM
I happen to live about a mile from the plant. I was watching the Obama speech when I heard a loud BOOM! I thought Russia had nuked us when I ran out and saw the mushroom cloud heading towards the sky. I panicked and looked for my cat. Sadly, my cat had suffered hairloss due to the impact. My Aunt Bestise fell off her rocking chair. Uncle Max droped his cigar. We thought it was the darn Repubs trying to ruin our boy Obamas big moment. Hope everyone is ok.

Posted by: Brian on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:40 AM
"Posted by: John on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:16 AM I'm having trouble breathing" Go to the hospital, if you're having trouble breathing...duh

Posted by: Jon on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:22 AM
I was on my way to my night job and it lit up th night sky like a bomb. I didn't know what to think. About five seconds later the boom followed. Everyone came outside where I stopped because they heard it.

Posted by: Concerned Citizen on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:17 AM
I have family residing in South Ridge who informed they heard the initial explosion and felt a violent after shock subsequent the blast. Possible but highly unlikely, they feared a terrorist attack at the plant. Hopefully, the Federal, State, and Local emergency management teams and EPA officials can accurately determine a source and expedite detailed information on any potentially hazardous materials released into the air (thus water). Over the last several years, a greater number of plant employees have either been laidoff or reassigned. Historically, we (the general public)are seldom apprised of the potential dangers, much less short or long term effects following an environmental disaster. Case in point, our countries chemical & mining industries. Governmental & Corporate neglect, outsourcing, and cutbacks have undoubtedly resulted in a lack and disregard for public safety. God bless to the plant employees, first responders, and their families.

Posted by: John on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:16 AM
I'm having trouble breathing

Posted by: Angela P on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:05 AM
When will the plant be able to confirm that the explosion did not release any toxic chemicals? My husband is in traffic there, and it is being re-routed, but he has been stuck there for hours with no way to "shelter in place" to avoid breathing any chemicals that may have been released. I am concerned for his safety and for the safety of all the others who may not have been able to shelter in place. If the chemical released was not toxic, then why is there still a shelter in place advisory, and why are people being told to turn off their air conditioners and seal any cracks???

Posted by: Melinda on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:03 AM
I hope everyone remembers that GOD will be there for you. I will be listening and praying for the family's of the injured worker and for the family who cannot find out any other information on the missing worker. Something told me to turn it on ch.3 and when I did around 12am I couldn't believe it, I have been listening and watching hoping they find this guy. I pray to GOD that he is somewhere safe. HOW TRAGIC! MAY GOD WATCH OVER YOU ALL.

Posted by: MJ on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:03 AM
I live in Dunbar near CVS pharmacy, and I didn't hear anything at all and no shaking or anything. But now its very very foggy outside with an odor and I have asthma and I feel like my chest is getting tight, but I don't know if its because I'm having some anxiety. I'm afraid to sleep...I sure hope its not methomyl, that stuff is VERY toxic according to the MSDS!

Posted by: Beth on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:02 AM
My prayers go out to all involved. I hope the missing worker is found safe and sound. God Bless all the people putting their life on the line to fight this fire. I don't think we thank you guys enough. Be safe until this is over.

Posted by: Cami on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:58 AM
The chemical is Thiodicarb, a pesticide more hazardous than most chemicals, a listed carcinogen and has a moderately toxic via oral and inhalation routes of exposure.. The half-life on soil and plant surfaces is less than one week & does not remain in the environment; however, it is toxic to fish. The web information is accurate, and this chemical is among the top twenty "Google" searches currently. The information supplied on you channel was very helpful, yet the toxicity level of this chemical IS moderate. Here in Huntington, we heard a sound similiar to a slow stopping train and felt waves of what felt like jerking. My thoughts are with all of you/us in the dangerous chemical valley.

Posted by: Melodey on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:55 AM
what about Schools on Friday? are any of them going to be closed or cont. as a normal day?

Posted by: brian on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:52 AM
The institute plant has an inhouse fire department made up of company employees. It is totally separate from the institute volunteer fire department.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:52 AM
I live in Dunbar and didnt hear or feel anything & Im about 2 miles away.

Posted by: Angela on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:50 AM
My heart goes out to the families of the employees who are there. Especially the one who is still missing and the one who was injured. I cannot even imagine what their families are going through right now.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:45 AM
I live in Daytona but my parents live on Vivtoria Road, at the base of Tyler Mountain. Is that area safe?

Posted by: Adam on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:42 AM
State police in So. Charleston confirmed to me that I-64 and Rt 60 are closed also. They had no time frame as of now.

Posted by: krystal on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:40 AM
Wow, im so sorry to hear about this i hope every1 is ok and safe. i am keeping every1 in the area in my prayers. thanks wsaz for the updates your doing a great job.=)

Posted by: Cameron on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:34 AM
What other areas might explode? What chemicals are involved? Are we safe? I was in Cross Lanes at the time the explosion occured, A bright orange light lit up the sky, towards Golf Mountain Rd, and then we felt a shockwave and a LOUD explosion. It made my heart drop and scared the crap out of me and my friends. Please keep me informed its hard to sleep now

Posted by: Dawn on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:31 AM
Does anyone know if I-64 is still closed?? And, is there a detour set up yet if it is??

Posted by: Misplaced-Hillbilly on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:31 AM
My prayers and thoughts go out to those who were injured and to those currently working on this scene.

Posted by: TinFoil on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:29 AM
Just a word to the wise, you should NEVER try to outrun a chemical release. Shelter in place is the safest thing you can do. No one who works around chemicals will ever tell you to run from a disaster like this. Please, understand a shelter in place is your safest solution in an emergency.

Posted by: Rachel on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:23 AM
Does anyone know what all roads are closed at this time? I have a friend coming from Ohio and needs to know if he can come down 77.

Posted by: BUD on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:14 AM
We are sheltering in place from the chemical release in Institute. Hope everyone is OK.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:14 AM
what kind of directions do we need to give to someone stuck in traffic on 64w at Roxalana Road exit?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:11 AM
My husband is at the Amos plant..not far. Anyone know anything? Please?!?

Posted by: Angel on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:10 AM
I found some information on methomyl. http://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0177.htm

Posted by: heehaw on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:09 AM
I was walking to my dorm on campus and I saw a big fireball and the sky lit orange. I thought it was a nuke. I smelled strange things and ran to my room. We are at a shelter in place and everyone is scared.

Posted by: Anon. Misc. on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:07 AM
I work at a hotel in Chapmanville and we have guests that are leaving the area and staying here. About an hour (45miles) south of the affected area.

Posted by: Lura on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:06 AM
methomyo: PHYSICAL PROPERTIES AND GUIDELINES Breathing of dust, and skin contact with methomyl dust or solutions, should be avoided and prevented. Appropriate protective clothing, including respirator mask, goggles, and gloves, should be worn to prevent the possibility of skin contact with this toxic material (16). Like most organic powders or crystals, under extremely dusty conditions, methomyl may form explosive mixtures in air (27). A reentry interval of 24 hours may lessen the possibility of poisoning (9). Methomyl users should not contaminate water by cleaning of equipment or disposal of wastes associated with the insecticide (5). Discarded methomyl is considered a hazardous waste product under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) (2). Methomyl is a white crystalline solid with a slight sulfurous odor (16). Liquid formulations are flammable and should be kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames (2). When heated to decomposition or combustion, methomyl emits very toxic fumes of nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides and hydrogen cyanide. Explosion may occur if methomyl confined in containers is heated above 136 degrees C (18, 27, 28). Methomyl will auto ignite at temperatures at or above 290 degrees C (29). Methomyl is stable under normal temperatures and storage conditions (27, 28). It is stable in aqueous neutral suspensions and solutions, but hydrolyses in alkaline media (8). Aqueous methomyl solutions are non corrosive (25). Microcoulometric gas chromatography is recommended for residue detection (1).

Posted by: kerry on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:06 AM
Methomyl is a highly toxic compound in EPA toxicity class I. It is classified as Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) by EPA because of its high acute toxicity to humans.

Posted by: concerned Wife on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:04 AM
hi my husband is working at catalyst Refinery right in front of the Bayer plant. They are not able to evacuate because of the chemicals. I would love to hear something that is going on because i am very worried about him and the other workers at this plant.

Posted by: Chrissy on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:03 AM
I first heard about it on myz on an update along the bottom. I looked up methomyl a site from dupont stated the it is a highly toxic compound in epa toxicity class I. It is restricted because of its high acute toxicity to humans. It can be fatal if inhaled and toxic if absorbed through the skin. It also stated it has a slight sulpher smell.

Posted by: ardy on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:01 AM
what all chemicals have been said i know methomyl is toxic and has been said to be in the explosion but what other chemicals have escaped?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:00 AM
WV thanks for raining toxic material down on me and my family. Theres no place like home no place like home

Posted by: Jessica on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:57 AM
hello, i never write on these however i do feel it is very inportant that you,read this infor on the Methomyl, that they are saying is not ture you should probably just read it for yourself to get you own opinion,i would like to hear what you all think,about what it says on there, .... http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu/profiles/extoxnet/haloxyfop-methylparathion/methomyl-ext.html ****just copy and paste***

Posted by: maya on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:56 AM
Methyl isocyanate, commonly and known all too familiar to those who live around the plant as MIC, is one of the chemicals that is used to make Methomyl.

Posted by: Shelly on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:55 AM
To Kayla at 1121pm...you live thirty minutes in what direction? I am in Barboursville...I think I might have felt it too..but just a little rumble.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:53 AM
Methomyl is a highly toxic compound in EPA toxicity class I. It is classified as Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) by EPA because of its high acute toxicity to humans. The Signal Words for products containing methomyl depend upon the formulation of the product. Restricted Use Pesticides may be purchased and used only by certified applicators. Reentry periods for farm workers of 1 to 7 days are required, depending on the crop.

Posted by: Nicole on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:53 AM
I'm at college now, but all my family is in Dunbar and I alerted them as soon as I got a call from my boyfriend. They felt it out there in Alum Creek. I'm very greatful because he had just left State University. I'm sure everyone will be fine, but don't test that-everyone stay inside and block air passages. Perhaps the wistles expolded too. But didn't we all kind of expect this to happen one day, I know I kind of did. It was a matter of time before something went wrong with all those chems. I'll be praying for everyone.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:52 AM
Methomyl is potentially a highly poisonous material in humans (6). It is highly toxic if it is ingested or absorbed through the eyes, moderately poisonous when inhaled, but of lower toxicity with skin, or 'dermal,' exposure (18, 30). Methomyl is a highly toxic inhibitor of cholinesterase, an essential nervous system enzyme. Symptoms of anti- cholinesterase activity include weakness, blurred vision, headache, nausea, abdominal cramps, chest discomfort, constriction of pupils, sweating, muscle tremors, and decreased pulse. If there is severe poisoning, symptoms of twitching, giddiness, confusion, muscle incoordination, slurred speech, low blood pressure, heart irregularities, and loss of reflexes may also be experienced. Death can result from discontinued breathing, paralysis of muscles of the respiratory system, intense constriction of the openings of the lung, or all three (6, 16). The onset of symptoms may be delayed up to 12 hours (16). The route, duration, and concentration of methomyl exposure will affect the severity of poisoning and the number and types of symptoms that occur. Complete recovery from an acute poisoning by methomyl, with no long term health effects, is possible if exposure ceases and the victim has time to reform their normal level of cholinesterase and to recover from symptoms (7, 26). (For more information on cholinesterase, please refer to the Toxicology Information Brief on Cholinesterase- Inhibition

Posted by: mom on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:51 AM
To the poster from Poca: Nitro is always closer to Institute. Think about it.When you are driving from Institute, you come to Nitro before Poca, right? So NO, Poca is not closer to the plant.If you just moved here then I'm sorry to be so snarky.

Posted by: Mike on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:50 AM
I noticed how foggy it was outside in Barboursville. Does the explosion have anything to do with this?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:48 AM
My son is a student at WVSU. I just tried to call the school's emergency # listed... I got an answering machine with no mention of an emergency. I can't BELIEVE no mention has been made of any safety protocol at the college!

Posted by: Mel on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:47 AM
I live in St. Albans...anyone else have a headache? Weird taste in back of throat? Could be just be paranoid, wondering if anyone else felt like this?

Posted by: MIKE on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:46 AM
WHY DON'T THE NEWS PEOPLE HAVE MASKS ON? IT MUST NOT BE THAT SERIOUS

Posted by: N/A on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:45 AM
we are about 400 meters from the ground zero. We felt the explosion and saw the blast and currently we are shelter in place/ White powdery substance is all over our cars. God be with the injured and the missing.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:45 AM
West Virginia needs to get out of the chemical industry. All of these plants around here just pollute and are not safe. You would think WV would have some new ideas for industry and jobs. I bet we all contract cancer from living around these plants.

Posted by: MIKE on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:43 AM
THAT IS A VERY DANGEROUS CHEMICAL! SO IS IT IN THE AIR OR NOT?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:41 AM
when was the firs explosions felt? how long has it been and we still don't know what kind of danger we are in....

Posted by: Annonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:41 AM
Does anyone know what caused the explosion???

Posted by: Deeply Concerned In Ohio on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:40 AM
Is my husband, the truck driver stuck in traffic near the explosion, in danger of inhaling this methomyl? I am scared to death that he and all of the rest of the people stuck in traffic around the area will have serious health problems because of this. I have no way to watch for updates anywhere but here on this website. What should people be watching for concerning the possible health risks involved with inhalation of methomyl?

Posted by: jsh on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:38 AM
They store large amounts of (MIC) Methyl isocyanate and phosgene at that location.

Posted by: Danny on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:36 AM
I thought someone had hit my Trailer, It realy shook it. I hope all the workers are accounted for and safe.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:36 AM
Methomyl is a carbamate insecticide. It was introduced in 1966, but its use is restricted because of its high toxicity to humans.[2] Its current primary use is on alfalfa for forage.[3]

Posted by: HT on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:35 AM
That is really scary. None of the major news agencies are talking about this yet --they only care about Obama. You in our thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:34 AM
the emergency siren in tornado just sounded

Posted by: Scared in South Charleston on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:34 AM
should we be evacuating? I feel like the public needs more info! I have a five year old daughter and I need to know what to do. We live in the chemical valley and this is the second shelter in place this year (1st was blue haze) we should be able to react in a more definate manner. Where is the information??

Posted by: Ruth on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:34 AM
I felt the whole house shake and a very loud noise.our dogs came running. I didn't know what was happening. My eyes, nose and throat are burning. We are barricaded. They are saying there may be another explosion!

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:33 AM
We felt the explosion shook the whole house. We live a good distance into SA and it still shook the whole house.

Posted by: shelly on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:33 AM
To annonymous at 11:53pm...that is what I thought I felt in Barboursville...and moments later it was on the news...that is why I am wondering if anyone else heard or felt anything in Barboursville. I also heard a low muffled noise...like something bumping the house.

Posted by: ForestWander on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:31 AM
I looked up some of the chemicals that have been mentioned in the news reports and both read as if they are toxic. http://pmep.cce.cornell.edu/profiles/extoxnet/haloxyfop-methylparathion/methomyl-ext.html http://www.bayercropscienceus.com/products_and_seeds/insecticides/larvin.html

Posted by: Christina on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:31 AM
At 10:35 P.M. I heard a loud boom and looked up and seen a ball of flames rising from behind Wal*Mart mountain in Nitro. I felt the shockwaves from it. At about 10:40 I heard another small explosion. You instantly smelled sulfur and the air felt heavy. A friend at work's wife is a nurse and got a call that someone that was severely burned at the Bayer Corp. was "at the gate" and they weren't sure if it was a chemical burn or otherwise.

Posted by: BEN on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:30 AM
I am a very concerned son, My name is Ben, my father is currently working at the Rite Aid Distribution Facility in Nitro, i talked to him and made him aware of the explosion, i asked him if the workers there were informed of the explosion and the risks.... The workers there are TOTALLY UN-AWARE of the explosion. ALSO the DOORS, VENTS, FANS, ARE ALL OPEN AND RUNNING, THIS IS Definitely shows rite aid doesnt care about their employees............ There are 100s of people in that building right now and noone is safe. PLEASE BROADCAST this.

Posted by: Josh on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:29 AM
The news said it was methomyl ... is this true? can this be harmful for people who live around the area?

Posted by: breanna on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:29 AM
what is the chemical.. i didnt catch it when they said it

Posted by: MIKE on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:28 AM
DO WE NEED TO LEAVE KANAWHA COUNTY?

Posted by: Danny on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:27 AM
The explosion knocked a tree over just across the street from my house.

Posted by: Lynn on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:26 AM
Just got in touch with my daughter, they saw the explosion before they heard it. She lives right beside the plant in Institute. They were outside on the porch at the time. They are all fine and got out of the area. Thank all of you for your prayers and concern. Told that only one injury has been reported and also told that no chemicals are escaping the plant. Don't know how true that is but it is what I was informed. Thank you

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:26 AM
To Shelly, YES! I live in Barboursville and I too heard a dull boom, like that of distant fireworks or a drum outside my window. My dogs started barking. Even my 3yr old heard it. I thought something big had happened, that was confirmed when I heard the news.

Posted by: Elaine on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:25 AM
We can smell an odor in our area. Prayers to all!

Posted by: jake hensley on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:25 AM
my moms bed shook from the blast

Posted by: concerned in ohio on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:24 AM
My husband is a truck driver and he is stuck in traffic on the highway next to MacCorkle Ave. He wants to turn around and go shut down for the night somewhere safe. How soon will the stopped traffic on 64 through that area be directed to a safe route?

Posted by: Mary on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:24 AM
I live in St Albans and work in Cross Lanes... How difficult is it going to be to get to work tomorrow and are my children going to school in the morning...

Posted by: carrie on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:22 AM
i believe you all are doing your best to keep people updated as you all know yourself the news so keep up the good work people need to understand it takes time for you all to send and recive info on what is going on and you all will report the new and info as soon as you recieve it ....

Posted by: J on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:22 AM
So Methomyl is a carbamate insecticide. It was introduced in 1966, but its use is restricted because of its high toxicity to humans.

Posted by: Jordan on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:22 AM
i was sitting on my front porch in south charleston and i saw an orange flash in the sky, it was so bright that it dimmed the street lights on my street! it looked like the middle of the day. i live just across the dunbar bridge in spring hill. there was a loud boom that sounded like really loud thunder and then another less severe boom that sounded more distant.

Posted by: dear worried on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:21 AM
i live 1/2 mile from the plant in dunbar and have two family members that work there; the only injuries are workers; your daughter is probably not answering b/c institute has been evacuated

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:20 AM
I am new to the charleston area...just wondering what it means to have a "shelter in place"

Posted by: Adam on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:20 AM
At Bayer's Institute West Virginia plant, large quantities of the highly toxic chemicals methyl isocyanate (MIC) and phosgene are produced and stored. This is probably the deciding to factor to leave the Kanawha county area as soon as possible. Those chemicals, if inhaled or digested, can be fatal.

Posted by: Alex on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:20 AM
The phone lines in that area ae not working due to too many calls coming through the lines.

Posted by: Jacob on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:19 AM
Thank you so much. We live on Stone rd in St Albans is it safe out here?

Posted by: Jamie on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:18 AM
Have any of you heard if they might close the schools?

Posted by: Angela on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:18 AM
Hi, I am in Dunbar and I swear, I heard and felt nothing. Strange, huh? I am concerned tho because I have a lot of children and we live in an old drafty house. No way to truly 'shelter'. Ah well. Go with God.

Posted by: Mary on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:17 AM
I live in the Culloden area and felt a shake or rumble at the time. Wondering if anyone else felt of heard it????? I'm wondering if we're safe in this area?????

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:16 AM
what chemical? don't guess please. what about school closings? pray for everyone there

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:16 AM
i'm from sc i didn't feel anything

Posted by: connie on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:14 AM
oh my god please let my daughter be safe she goes to collage at institute,and all of the other people as well may the lord watch over each and everyone of you and keep you safe,god bless you all.

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:13 AM
w

Posted by: Marilyn on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:12 AM
Shouldn't Poca be included in the shelter in place? From the map you posted, it looks like Poca is closer than Nitro to the plant.

Posted by: ben on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:09 AM
I am a very concerned son, My name is Ben, my father is currently working at the Rite Aid Distribution Facility in Nitro, i talked to him and made him aware of the explosion, i asked him if the workers there were informed of the explosion and the risks.... The workers there are TOTALLY UN-AWARE of the explosion. ALSO the DOORS, VENTS, FANS, ARE ALL OPEN AND RUNNING, THIS IS Definitely shows rite aid doesnt care about their employees............ There are 100s of people in that building right now and noone is safe. PLEASE BROADCAST this.

Posted by: worried family on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:05 AM
my mom lives in institute and her whole home shook she said it was loud...this whole thing is scary i hope the chemical is not harmful to the community......Pray for everyone at this time & for the workers & family

Posted by: joe on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:04 AM
what about school closings for friday

Posted by: Joni on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:04 AM
What is the Shelter In Place website for instructions?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 12:04 AM
someone from the plant just called and said to get out of saint albans. ITS NOT SAFE!!! he was 200 yards away from the explosion, he has made his wife and son both get out of saint albans

Posted by: Lynn on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:59 PM
My home is in Institute right beside the plant and my daughter 23, lives there. Please help me to find out if she is all right she is not answering her phone.

Posted by: Rebecca on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:56 PM
Are our children going to be going to school tomorrow? Is it going to be safe for them to go to school tomorrow?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:55 PM
This area is so dangerous I hope no one died

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:53 PM
I live in South Charleston, near the middle school, & I felt the explosion. I first thought it was thunder, but then it felt like something hit my house. I also heard another small one. I didn't know what it was until I turned on the news.

Posted by: David on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:53 PM
THIS PRETTY MUCH STINKS!!!

Posted by: Brett on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:52 PM
At 1035pm I felt a shockwave hit me and move through my home followed by an immediate sound of a very large explosion. I live on the border of Jefferson and Saint Albans directly across the river from the explosion. The shockwave I felt was very strong. I spent eight years in the Army and have experienced many situations and felt many shockwaves. This one was among the largest I have felt.

Posted by: Shelly on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:50 PM
I want to know if anyone in the Barboursville WV area heard or felt anything. I thought I heard/felt a low rumble type noise and my animals acted strange...just wondering

Posted by: Johnny Walls on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:49 PM
Video Posted at this link: https://www.yousendit.com/download/Q01IUWVxUEMwZ2swTVE9PQ

Posted by: heath on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:48 PM
we heard the explosion in winfield

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:45 PM
Omg this is horrible !!

Posted by: Daniel on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:42 PM
This report was up 10 minutes after the explosion. I'm impressed. Keep it up.

Posted by: ? on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:32 PM
were there any chemicals involved or not?

Posted by: E.S. on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:23 PM
So, is Spring Valley in Huntington safe?

Posted by: Kayla on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:21 PM
I felt the blast, it shook my entire house. I live 30 minutes away, hope others closer are okay.

Posted by: Anon on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:21 PM
Will this get us out of school tomorrow?

Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:17 PM
I-64 is now closed now.

Posted by: John on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:13 PM
The interstate at Institute has been shut down by State Police. The town of Dunbar has been shut down. Kanawha Fire Department is arriving on scene shortly. Dispatchers report of an engineer inside the plant, saying that the situation is "serious."

Posted by: Brittany on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:12 PM
I heard a bang and felt my house shake, all the way out here!

Posted by: Tyler on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:09 PM
Does anyone know what chemical caused this explosion??

Posted by: Jeanine on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:05 PM
We felt it. We cannot believe that there is no shelter in place just to be on the safe side. Where are the whistles?

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