Eight injured and hundreds evacuated in German oil refinery explosion
1,800 residents in Vohburg pulled out following blaze at Bayernoil site
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Eight people were injured when a huge fire broke out following an explosion at an oil refinery in southern Germany early on Saturday.
Another 1,800 people living near the Bayernoil facility in the town of Vohburg were initially evacuated from their homes, but they have since been able to return.
Firefighters are still tackling the blaze at the site in Bavaria, and police warned there was “a risk of more explosions”.
The fire spread quickly after a loud detonation was heard at the refinery around 5.30am. Large clouds of smoke billowing from the site could be seen several miles away.
All eight people injured in the incident were Bayernoil employees, according to the German media agency dpa.
Police said three of the victims were hospitalised having suffered either “medium” or “serious” injuries.
Residents in Vohburg were initially evacuated because of fears of toxic smoke, but air tests later showed it was safe enough to allow them to return to their homes.
Police said there is currently no danger for residents, but recommended anyone living within 20km of the refinery keep their windows and doors closed.
Around 400 firefighters, emergency workers and police officers were deployed at the scene today.
The cause of the explosion is not yet known.
Additional reporting by agencies
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments