1 dead, 1 injured in explosion at chemical plant in Lemont

LEMONT, Ill. - An explosion at a petroleum chemical plant killed one person and injured another Tuesday morning in southwest suburban Lemont.

The incident took place around 9:30 a.m. at Seneca Petroleum Company at 12460 New Ave., according to the Will County Sheriff's Office.

One person was killed and another was transported to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, according to officials. 

According to the Tinley Park Bulldogs Wrestling Club, the deceased was identified as 25-year-old Dru Walker from Homewood.

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The Will County Sheriff's Office says the fire was triggered by an explosion, however, the local fire chief could not confirm that information.

The explosion might have originated from an asphalt tank, but officials said there is no hazmat situation at the scene and there is no danger to the public.

"It's an asphalt tank, I don't know for sure any more than that. There is no hazard to the community, there were no hazardous materials released. There is no environmental concern at this time," said Dan Lasso of the Lemont Fire Protection District.

Several power lines were knocked down during the explosion. OSHA and ComEd have been called to the scene to investigate. 

Lemont is roughly 30 miles southwest of Chicago.