Confusion grows on reports of how many have died in the explosion of a petrochemical plant on the southern coast of the Gulf of Mexico. One report said at least three persons died while another said up to 13 people were killed in the blast that was felt up to six miles away Wednesday.
Luis Felipe Puente, head of Mexico’s emergency service was quoted as stating that the death toll was up to 13. Veracruz state Governor Javier Duarte said more than 2,000 people were evacuated as a precautionary move.
Pemex said the blast happened at mid-afternoon at the Clorados 3 plant of Metroquimica Mexicana de Vinilo. The plant is operated by Mexichem in partnership with Pemex.
A toxic cloud covered the plant but dissipated by Wednesday night. Two workers were said to be in grave condition because of the toxic gases.
