Welding believed to have sparked fire at TX chemical plant that forced thousands to flee homes

Official: Welding likely sparked TX plant fire

BRYAN, Texas — Officials believe a welding job likely sparked a fire at a central Texas chemical plant that forced thousands of people from their homes and closed Texas A&M University’s main campus.

John Salsman with Brazos County emergency management said Friday the investigation is continuing but “the best information we have” indicates the blaze started during a welding job.

Salsman says fewer than 1,000 people were out of their homes Friday as the El Dorado Chemical Co. plant continued smoldering. He says authorities hope to get the remaining residents home soon.

According to Texas A&M’s Web site, the campus would reopen Friday.

The fire began midday Thursday at the plant in Bryan, about 100 miles north of Houston.

Salsman says at least 34 people were treated for injuries.