Jáltipan brine plant explosion death toll rises to four

The death toll from an explosion and fire at the PMV Minera brine plant in Jáltipan, Veracruz, has risen to four. Authorities confirmed the body of Jesús Cadenas Ramos, a 61-year-old worker, was found inside a brine well during forensic investigations.

The incident occurred on Monday, September 14, when a diesel-injected pipeline connected to a well exploded, creating a massive column of smoke. The explosion and subsequent fire led to the evacuation of approximately 300 people from nearby communities due to the risk of further blasts.

In addition to the four fatalities, three people have been reported injured. One worker sustained burns during cooling operations following the initial blast. Civil Protection reported that the fire has been brought under control and is in the venting phase, with approximately 50% progress. Authorities are currently investigating the root cause of the accident.