OAKWOOD VILLAGE, Ohio — An explosion at the I. Schumann & Co. metal plant in Oakwood Village on Monday afternoon killed one person and injured at least 13, officials said.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the deceased as Steven Mullins, 46, of North Ridgeville.
Departments from multiple areas responded to the explosion at the plant just shortly before 3 p.m., which is located on the 22500 block of Alexander Rd.
Oakwood Fire Capt. Brian DiRocco said the 13 injured people are being treated at nearby hospitals. Ahuja Medical Center confirmed it has seven of those patients. MetroHealth also said it has some patients as well.
DiRocco said he couldn’t confirm the extent of the injuries. He added the factory doesn’t have a history of fire code violations.
The cause of the fire is being investigated.
“An explosion of unknown origin struck our Bedford, Ohio facility today resulting in injuries to employees and significant damage to the facility,” the company wrote in a statement. “Our efforts now are focused on supporting the first responders who came on scene quickly to help our employees. The safety and health of our employees is our top priority and we commit to ensuring they receive the medical care they need. We will work alongside investigators in their search for answers as part of our commitment to northeast Ohio where we have been operating for more than 100 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with our team members and their families at this difficult time.”
All of the plant staff have been accounted for, DiRocco said. The fire was under control and crews were working on mopping up hot spots around 5:30 p.m.
The I. Schumann & Co. factory is family-owned and produces brass and bronze alloys in ingot and pellet forms, according to its website. It’s been in operation since the early 1900s.
This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.
