Contractor killed in Robertson County power plant explosion

ROBERSTON COUNTY, Texas (KBTX) - A contractor is dead following an explosion Wednesday morning at the Oak Grove Power Plant near Franklin.

Calls to 911 started coming just after 8 a.m. reporting that a boiler exploded at the power plant. Robertson County first responder crews found a contractor on the scene seriously injured. The contractor later died from their injuries, according to the parent company of the power plant, Luminant.

Luminant said the incident occurred during the commissioning of a new auxiliary boiler around 8 a.m.

“Our sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the families of those impacted by this unfortunate event, and we would like to thank the local first responders for their quick response and efforts to render aid,” a statement from the company said.

No other injuries were reported and crews say the incident is “under control.”

This is the second major incident at the same facility this year.

In February, four workers were rushed to the hospital after being exposed to a possible hazardous chemical.

“Luminant will continue to work closely with the contractor’s employer and state and federal regulators to investigate the cause of this event. Oak Grove remains in operation and is generating electricity,” according to the company.

Robertson County Emergency Management Coordinator Billy Huggins also sent a statement to KBTX thanking the first responders for their efforts Wednesday morning.

“When tragedy strikes in Robertson County, we are blessed to have first responder agencies in place ready, and trained to answer the call. This morning’s incident was a prime example of the capabilities of all first responders in our county. The response was large and rapid and all agencies worked well together providing the assistance that our community partner Luminant urgently needed. Our Dispatchers, Law Enforcement, EMS, and Fire should all be proud and commended on their efforts. Please Keep the family of the victim and all Luminant employees in your prayers.”

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