Ground Control

Worst-case scenario eliminated in California, but dangers still remain

GKN Aerospace issued an official statement yesterday updating the public on a chemical spill at its Garden Grove, California facility that caused a major evacuation and health concerns. The statement from the multi-billion-dollar manufacturer praised response efforts and provided specific details related to the incident, while also offering a lengthy apology.

"We understand that the past several days have been difficult for residents, businesses, and the broader Garden Grove, Stanton, and surrounding Orange County communities. We are relieved that the incident has been resolved and residents have been able to return home. We are grateful to the emergency responders, public officials, technical specialists, and nonprofit organizations who worked tirelessly throughout the response," the statement reads.

"On behalf of the team at GKN Aerospace, I want to say how sorry we are for the uncertainty and disruption this situation has caused,” said GKN Senior Vice President Steve Carlin, who oversees the Garden Grove site’s programs. “I recognize how challenging this has been, particularly over the Memorial Day holiday. We are committed to understanding what occurred and identifying ways we can support those affected.” 

Throughout the response, GKN specialists worked alongside fire officials, emergency responders, outside technical experts, and local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. Officials have reported that there was no chemical leak, no contamination, and there have been no reported injuries. “We are deeply grateful to OCFA and the entire first responder community for their efforts over the past several days,” added Carlin. “We recognize there is more work ahead. Our focus remains on supporting the community, working closely with authorities, and continuing to ensure a safe and responsible path forward. I am personally committed to working with the Garden Grove, Stanton, and broader Orange County communities on these efforts.” 

Officials have lifted all evacuation orders related to an overheating chemical tank in southern California, a day after a crack in the structure eliminated the risk of a catastrophic blast.

Pressure inside the tank at GKN Aerospace in Orange County had been alleviated, authorities said Monday, preventing a disaster known as a BLEVE, or boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion. About 16,000 had remained under evacuation orders until Tuesday evening.

Until evacuation orders were partially lifted Monday evening, about 50,000 residents were asked to flee their homes as the temperature and pressure escalated inside the tank containing 7,000 gallons of a chemical called methyl methacrylate, or MMA, which is used to make plastics and can cause severe health problems upon exposure.