Federal investigators have served a search warrant at GKN Aerospace’s facility in Garden Grove as part of an ongoing investigation into a chemical emergency that forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. According to KABC-TV, agents executed the warrant this morning, several weeks after concerns over a compromised chemical tank prompted authorities to order more than 50,000 people to leave their homes as a precaution.
Officials have not disclosed specific details about the investigation, but reports indicate it is focused on possible violations that may have contributed to the dangerous situation at the plant. Authorities feared the tank could explode or release toxic chemicals into the surrounding community, creating a significant public safety threat.
The immediate danger was eventually eliminated when a crack developed in the tank, relieving internal pressure. Investigators are still working to determine what caused the material inside the tank to overheat. Meanwhile, residents have filed multiple lawsuits against GKN Aerospace, including a proposed class-action case.
