A devastating explosion rocked a processing plant in Decatur, Central Illinois, on Sunday, resulting in injuries to at least eight individuals, according to officials. The blast occurred just past 7 pm CT within the premises of the Archer Daniels Midland Company plant. Company officials are currently unsure of the exact cause of this unpredictable incident.
In conversation with Deputy Fire Chief Dan Kline, it was revealed that the total extent of the incurred injuries remains uncertain. He informed that the explosion initiated at the east plant inside the sprawling company’s processing complex.
Following the incident, the Archer Daniels Midland Company swiftly alerted the Decatur Fire Department. With the scene still active, the fire department continues to maintain its presence at the site. Additionally, the company spokesperson affirmed that several injured employees have already been transferred to a local hospital to receive necessary medical treatment. Expressing their concern, they said, “Our thoughts are with our colleagues. We do not have a confirmed cause at this time.”
The plant, positioned approximately 40 miles east of Springfield, serves as the North American headquarters of Archer Daniels Midland Company. As indicated by the company’s website, the location boasts an employee strength of over 4,000 individuals.
Founded in Decatur, the company has been a focal point of the community ever since its inception in 1939. The website states, “Today, Decatur is home to ADM’s North American Headquarters and is the single largest location and employee base across ADM’s global footprint. More than 4,000 colleagues work here in Decatur every day to unlock the power of nature to enrich the quality of life for billions around the world.”