Two Dead in Chemical Plant Explosion Near Lyon

Two workers have died following an explosion at a chemical plant near Lyon, France. The accident occurred on Monday (December 22nd), resulting in the deaths of a 47-year-old and a 55-year-old.

The second worker succumbed to his injuries on Friday, authorities announced. He had suffered severe burns. The first worker, aged 47, died the day after the explosion.

The explosion occurred in one of the plant's laboratories, which employs approximately 570 workers. A fire followed in a building spanning approximately 600 square meters. The causes of the explosion remain unclear.

The Lyon Prosecutor's Office has launched a criminal investigation into bodily harm and manslaughter by negligence. The plant's director, Jean-Pierre Lerat, had stated that the explosion may have been caused by a hydrogen leak.