Rockford, Illinois – Three years have passed since a massive explosion rocked the Chemtool plant in Rockton, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. The aftermath of the explosion left behind devastating physical and environmental damages, with a plume of smoke and flames visible for miles around the Chemtool Inc. facility on Prairie Hill Road.
The explosion not only caused residents to flee their homes but also raised concerns about the health impacts of the harmful chemicals released into the air. A survey conducted by the Winnebago County Health Department revealed that 11% of nearby residents reported experiencing skin irritation, while 42% suffered from eye problems as a result of the explosion.
Following the incident, Chemtool reached a settlement with nearby residents amounting to over $94 million, as they sought to address the damages caused. Represented by a small team of attorneys, residents argued in court that the explosion was a result of company negligence. However, some residents expressed doubts about whether the settlement was sufficient to cover the extent of the damage incurred.
As residents now have until August 14, 2024, to object to the settlement, Winnebago County Judge Stephen Balogh is set to make a decision on its approval on September 27. Attempts to seek comments from Chemtool’s parent company on the matter have been met with no response, leaving the final outcome in the hands of the legal process.
The community continues to grapple with the impact of the explosion, with ongoing uncertainties about the future and lingering concerns over potential long-term health effects. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures in industrial operations and the need for accountability in addressing environmental disasters.