By Courtney Mintenko

Investigators to enter blast site at oil refinery early next week

Jan 9, 2014 | 6:17 AM

Early next week, investigators will be able to physically enter the blast site after an explosion shook the Co-Op Refinery complex on Christmas Eve.

“The weather has delayed structural engineers from finishing their analysis on the safety and stability of the structure,” said fire marshal Randy Ryba, “with that said, they're going to work through the weekend to finish their work. I expect to be on the physical-damage scene by Monday, next Tuesday at the latest.”

Up until this point, Ryba and others working on the investigation have only looked at the blast site from a distance. They are also taking time to collect data and interviews about what was happening at the refinery prior to and during the fire and explosion.

Once Ryba gets the safety all-clear, investigators will begin the tedious task of processing the actual blast site, going through blast and fire damage and all of the materials strewn in the area. Considering the time of year, it may take a bit longer to go through each portion of the site.

“Part of the reactor complex is still ice encrusted from the firefighting operations. We haven't had enough warmth or sun at all to melt that off. Because of safety of the investigators and myself and any others on scene supporting us, we just have to tread more carefully.”

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The investigation only includes one reactor out of the four in the complex. Ryba said he is confident that his team will be able to get answers about what exactly triggered the blast.

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