06/08/2010
According to a preliminary investigation into the large explosion that rocked the Nosler plant last week, a rifle fired in an underground test tunnel set off the fire that sparked the explosion.
As reported by MyCentralOregon.com
Fire officials told KTVZ-TV on Saturday the rifle was being tested at Nosler Inc. by an employee in a concrete underground firing range used for ballistics testing.
A host of local, state and federal agencies wrapped up their investigation at the scene on Saturday and the building was released to the company.
Nosler officials also released a revised estimated value of $2.8 million for the building and $12.9 million for the contents on Saturday but said its insurance company was not ready to release a damage estimate.
No serious injuries were reported in the Wednesday fire and explosion.
