EXPLOSION AT A MUNITIONS FACTORY.

Taihape Daily Times, Issue 219, 24 January 1917, Page 5

EXPLOSION AT A MUNITIONS FACTORY.

GIGANTIC GASOMETER BURSTS. LONDON, Jan. 22. The force of the munitions factory explosion caused a great gasometer on, the opposite side of the river, the largest in Europe, to cant sideways and split open. Millions of cubic feet of gas shot up, and apparently was ignited high in the air by flaming particles from the chemical factory. This produced an awe-inspiring spectacle. INSURANCE COMPANIES DISCLAIM LIABILITY. LOOTERS AMONG THE RUINS. LONDON, Jan. 22. The insurance companies assort that they are not liable for damage done by the munition factory explosion, although some may make compassionate allowances No doubts are felt that the tragedy was purely accidental, but wild rumours arc current. One rumour is that the killed and wounded total thousands. The search among the ruins continues. It is the belief in official circles that the deaths will not exceed 100, injured about 150, and the number of lesser injuries 500. There were many cases of looting, among the ruins. Pathetic scenes occurred at the, "-jtfjquest. The coroner, announced that lie was not attempting a full investigation. The evidence disclosed several extraordinary tragic escapes. The local mayor states that a thousand people are homeless. The Government is prepared to do something to relieve the distress. Counsel on behalf of the Minister of Munitions has announced that all proper claims for injury or damage

to property, aud the Munitions Company also, have promised to generously deal with the compensation claims. The inquest has been adjourned for a fortnight.

Reports indicate that the explosion was heard ninety-six miles away. CASUALTY LIST. LONDON, Jan. 23. The High Commissioner reports: The official casualty list is as follows: — Killed: Men, 44; women,ll; children 14.

Seriously injured: 328. The list is believed to be complete, though some in hospital may die.