All remaining evacuation orders have been lifted in Toledo following a chemical reaction and tank rupture at an industrial facility earlier this week, officials confirmed. Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz announced Friday that an employee error caused the incident at the MC Tank Terminal, which had led to hundreds of people being evacuated and dozens receiving medical treatment.
Mayor Kapszukiewicz reported that the tank at the facility, owned by MC Tank Transport, completed its venting process late Thursday night. This critical step allowed a hazardous materials team to safely enter the site. The team's immediate priority was to conduct comprehensive checks of safety levels within the area. Following their assessment, Toledo Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Blake Molnar stated that officials are confident the site is now safe.
The rupture itself occurred late Tuesday night. Mayor Kapszukiewicz provided details on the cause, explaining that an employee was attempting to transfer liquid into the tank when a specific temperature level was introduced. This action triggered an unexpected chemical reaction within the tank, ultimately leading to its rupture. According to the mayor, MC Tank Transport has since accepted full responsibility for the incident and its consequences.
The chemical involved was identified as glycidyl methacrylate. The company reported that this industrial chemical is primarily used to improve the performance characteristics of various plastics, paints, and coatings. Its presence was central to the chemical reaction that unfolded.
In the immediate aftermath of the rupture, the incident necessitated the evacuation of hundreds of residents from their homes as a precautionary measure. Additionally, a significant number of people required medical attention, with 57 individuals receiving treatment at area hospitals. Mayor Kapszukiewicz clarified that despite the severity of the incident, there was no fire or explosion at the facility. He further stated that the chemical reaction had run its course, a key factor in allowing the community to begin its return to normal activities.
While the community is now moving towards normalcy and evacuation orders have been rescinded, the investigation into the incident remains active. Mayor Kapszukiewicz indicated that officials still have additional questions that need to be resolved as part of their ongoing inquiry into the events that transpired at the industrial facility.
