Three people arrested in connection with the fatal explosion and fire at a vinegar production factory in Examilia, near Corinth, have been granted until Friday morning, July 31, to appear before an investigating judge.
The three defendants were brought before the courts in Corinth on Tuesday. They are the factory’s 47-year-old owner, its 46-year-old operations supervisor, and its 46-year-old safety technician. Prosecutors have filed criminal charges against them in connection with the deadly explosion and the fire that followed.
According to reports, all three maintain that the factory had implemented all required safety measures and that the work being carried out at the facility complied with established procedures and safety protocols.
Investigation Continues
Investigators from the Fire Service’s Arson Crimes Directorate are continuing their preliminary investigation, collecting evidence from the site and focusing particularly on the factory’s piping systems and machinery.
Authorities are also taking statements from employees to determine how the explosion occurred and how the fire spread through the facility.
The incident claimed the life of a 67-year-old worker, while a 37-year-old colleague sustained minor injuries.
Initial Findings
According to the Fire Service’s preliminary assessment, the explosion occurred during welding work near a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply line.
The resulting fire spread rapidly, completely destroying the vinegar production plant.
Authorities said the exact circumstances of the accident are expected to be clarified through the ongoing investigation and the defendants’ testimony before the investigating judge.
