BRIGHTON, Mich. (AP) — An explosion occurred Tuesday morning when a tank containing byproducts from oil drilling operations burst into flames near the General Motors Proving Ground in southeastern Michigan. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although two nearby homes were damaged, according to Brighton Area Fire Authority Chief Michael O’Brian.
The incident took place around 6:40 a.m., sending a shockwave that could be felt several miles away and resulting in shattered windows in the homes located approximately 500 to 600 feet (150 to 180 meters) from the explosion site. O’Brian confirmed that at the time of the explosion, no personnel were present at the site.
Video footage captured at the location shows towering flames illuminating the surrounding area where oil drilling equipment was actively operating. Local television stations reported that the explosion was strong enough to be felt by residents from a distance.
In a statement, GM expressed relief that there were no injuries and that no GM facilities sustained damage due to the incident. Chief O’Brian noted that the tank was part of a leased area operated by a third party and mentioned that authorities are currently investigating the cause of the explosion.
The chief explained that the tanks contained a mixture including natural gas byproducts from oil drilling, water, a combustible liquid, and brine. Fire crews utilized flame-suppressing foam to extinguish the flames and then sprayed water on the surrounding tanks to prevent further hazards.
