1 Killed, 125 Injured In Cosmetics Factory Explosion

NEW WINDSOR, NY — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo dispatched emergency response personnel and resources Monday following a chemical explosion at Verla International Warehouse in New Windsor, Orange County. Following the explosion, State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Roger Parrino, State Police Superintendent George Beach II, State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos and State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker and resources from their respective agencies responded and are currently on site working in conjunction with local officials.

"In response to the chemical explosion and fire that occurred this morning in New Windsor, I am directing state emergency response teams to assist local officials in the response efforts in any way necessary," Governor Cuomo said. "I urge residents in the immediate area to monitor the situation and follow direction from local law enforcement."

At approximately 10:15 a.m. Monday, a large fire was reported at the commercial cosmetic company, located at 463 Temple Hill Road. The fire is believed to be caused by chemicals used at the plant. No impacts to drinking water have been observed at this time.

One employee was killed in the explosions and fire. The body of William Huntington, 57, of Newburgh, was found Monday evening.

More than 120 people were injured, including seven firefighters, recordonline.com said.

Following the explosion, state and local officials responded and have provided emergency medical treatment to the injured.

The Department of Environmental Conservation dispatched:

• 10 Environmental Conservation Police Officers
• Regional Air Pollution Control Specialist
• Regional Spill Response Engineer
• Two representatives from DEC's Emergency Management Unit

The New York State Police dispatched approximately 30 members of the State Police.

The Department of Health has dispatched the regional Director for Environmental Health, an environmental engineer and a sanitarian.

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services has dispatched:

• Approximately 10 staff members, including four fire protection specialists from the Office of Fire Prevention and Control
• Four foam trailers from the Foam Task Force
• OFPC hazardous materials response vehicle with air monitoring equipment
• Fire Investigation teams and K9s from OFPC are responding at the request of Orange County to assist with the investigation

Additionally, at the governor's direction, state investigators will work with local partners to determine the cause of the explosion at the warehouse and to examine any measures that could be taken at the state level to prevent future incidents.

Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, "All smoke can be hazardous to breathe, especially smoke containing potentially harmful particles and chemicals. As we continue to learn more about the air quality in the area affected by this explosion, I encourage those in the surrounding area to take appropriate precautions and await further direction from first responders. The State Department of Health is working with local medical providers to ensure appropriate care for those involved."

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