The company behind the hazardous chemical tank at risk of exploding in Orange County wants everyone to know how sorry it is for displacing tens of thousands of residents.
UK-based GKN Aerospace issued a statement about the prolonged chemical leak in Garden Grove, as officials told some in the area that they can finally return home after 40,000 were evacuated.
“We continue to monitor the condition of the affected material and are working round the clock to mitigate the risk of a leak,” the statement read.
“We are acutely aware of the uncertainty this incident is causing and sincerely apologise for the ongoing disruption to the local community.
“We are working closely with the Orange County Fire Authority, the EPA, OSHA, and all relevant federal, state and local agencies, and remain deeply grateful for the dedication and expertise of all emergency services and agencies involved.
“Our priority remains the safe resolution of this incident, so that residents can return to their homes as quickly as possible. Please continue to follow all instructions issued by local authorities and emergency personnel at this time.”
The company’s tank began heating up uncontrollably last week, leading to concerns it could explode or rupture. The 34,000-gallon structure contains methyl methacrylate, which health officials said could be toxic if inhaled.
Officials evacuated about 40,000 residents from the area, cramming them into crowded shelters and leaving them homeless for the time being. The incident led to a county-wide state of emergency and even garnered attention from President Trump. About 65% of the residents who evacuated recently returned to their homes after officials finally said temperatures began cooling due to a crack in the tank.
But the backlash aimed at the company is just heating up.
Orange County Rep. Derek Tran has called for a “deep investigation” into the company, and several law firms have said they will seek class-action suits to compensate victims.
GKN describes itself as a “global technology leader in the aerospace industry, with advanced aerostructures and engine systems on board 100,000 flights a day.”