West Reading, PA – Pennsylvania utility regulators are being required to release inspection records to the National Transportation Safety Board regarding a fatal explosion at a chocolate factory last year. US District Judge Christopher C. Conner ruled in favor of the federal agency’s request, despite the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission’s initial refusal to provide the information.
The investigation revolves around UGI Utilities Inc., a natural gas utility, and its potential involvement in the March 24, 2023 explosion at the R.M. Palmer Co. plant in West Reading, PA. This devastating incident resulted in the loss of seven lives, the destruction of a building, and significant damage to another. Investigators are exploring two gas leaks as potential causes or contributing factors to the explosion.
State utility regulators had previously declined the NTSB’s request for UGI inspection records, citing state laws protecting confidential security information about essential utility infrastructure from public disclosure. However, the federal judge’s recent ruling now compels them to release the necessary documents for the ongoing investigation.
The clash between federal and state authorities over the disclosure of inspection records highlights the complexities of investigating such tragic incidents. The need for transparency and cooperation between agencies is crucial in determining the root cause of the explosion and preventing future similar accidents. The NTSB’s pursuit of these records underscores the importance of thorough and comprehensive investigations in ensuring public safety and holding accountable those responsible for such catastrophic events.