Explosion at Otahuhu Shell Station

SHELL NEW ZEALAND

Media Statement
For Immediate Release
Friday 22 August 2003

Explosion at Otahuhu Shell Station

At 1.30pm this afternoon, there was an explosion at the Shell Station in Atkinson Avenue, Otahuhu. Shell New Zealand regrets to announce that a service station staff member has been confirmed dead at the scene. Another person has been taken to hospital suffering burns. The extent of their injuries is not yet known.

“We are shocked and saddened by this incident and our deepest sympathy goes to the families,” said Jim Collings, Shell New Zealand’s local Senior Oil Products Representative.

Police have cordoned off the Shell Station and are investigating the cause of the incident. Shell will provide further details as soon as they are available.

Shell has begun its own investigation into the incident and will fully cooperate with police, OSH and any other official investigations.

“Shell New Zealand takes all safety issues very seriously. We are doing everything we can to support those affected and to cooperate with the investigation into this incident,” said Mr Collings.

ENDS

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