Packaging Worker Dies in Explosion

COLUMBUS, WI—Human error is being blamed for the Oct. 18 explosion at American Packaging that claimed the life of a worker. Jeffrey Doxtator, 47, died when sparks from a grinder he was operating ignited vapors. The blast caused Doxtator internal injuries and triggered a fire, according to the Wisconsin State Journal.

Although the accident is still under investigation, Doxtator apparently had been grinding bolts in a hazardous area of the gravure plant that houses washing units. Another worker suffered smoke inhalation injuries and was taken to an area hospital before being 
released, the paper said.

The Journal, quoting an insurance agent at the scene, estimated the packaging plant's damage at about $1 million.