Luna Tech Explosion Accidental

Contact: John S. Robison, State Fire Marshal
(334) 241-4166

9/6/1999

Following an extensive investigation of the September 2nd explosion at Luna Tech, Inc., investigators have ruled the cause as accidental, although the specific events leading up to the explosion are undetermined at this time.

The 4:41 PM explosion at 148 Moon Road at Owens Cross Roads in Madison County, heavily damaged the pyrotechnics facility and injured three employees. Investigators have determined that the initial blast occurred at a day magazine where samples of products and other materials were stored.

Subsequent explosions caused hundreds of unexploded pyrotechnic devices to be scattered throughout the area surrounding the facility, however, EOD personnel were able to collect and remove these devices without further incidents. The unexploded devices and other products which had been damaged by water were removed from the scene and burned to prevent additional explosions.

Although the scene examination is complete, additional information may be developed which will enable investigators to further pinpoint the exact cause of the explosion.

The fires were brought under control by several area fire departments, while the Alabama Department of Public Safety was primarily responsible for removal and destruction of the unexploded devices. The post-blast investigation was conducted by the Madison County Fire Marshals Office; the State Fire Marshals Office; the Madison County Sheriff’s Department; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; and other area law enforcement agencies.