13 Hurt In Explosion At Manufacturing Plant In East Providence: Authorities

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Thirteen workers were injured Wednesday night in an explosion at a manufacturing plant in East Providence, according to authorities.

Police and fire officials responded at 8:14 p.m. to the Aspen Aerogels facility at 3 Dexter Road for a report of an explosion and fire inside the facility, according to a social media post from Mayor Bob DaSilva.

"A mass casualty incident has been declared, which activates mutual aid services from throughout the region and puts hospitals on notice in the region," the post said.

Thirteen people, all Aspen Aerogels employees, were taken to a nearby hospital, but there were no immediate reports of major injuries, according to officials.

Aspen Aerogels Senior Director Neal Baranosky in an email described the explosion as "an operational incident," adding that as of about 11 p.m., the site was secure and "the situation is under control."

"We are working closely with local first responders, and we are grateful for their swift and professional response," he said in the email. "... The well-being of our colleagues is our top priority."

In a video update posted to Facebook around 10:40 p.m., DaSilva said the explosion occurred in manufacturing machinery and a piece of machinery was significantly damaged.

He said that while the blast was loud enough to prompt neighbors to call the police, there was no danger to the surrounding community and no chemical leaks or similar concerns.

Traffic was being diverted away from Dexter Road and people were asked to avoid the area.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal was notified.