A mysterious explosion at a dairy in Texas resulted in the deaths of thousands of cattle, and caused injuries to at least one employee who was on site at the time.
According to CNN, there were over 19,000 cattle at the South Fork Dairy, located 11 miles outside of Dimmitt, Texas, when the explosion and subsequent fire occurred on Monday.
“The number of cattle killed in the explosion and fire are still estimated,” said Castro County Sheriff Salvador Rivera in a statement.
“Upon arrival it was determined that one person was trapped inside and fire crews were able to locate the person and remove them from the building,” the sheriff’s statement continued. “The person was flown to the UMC Hospital in Lubbock. All employees were accounted for.”
The sole injured person is still in the intensive care unit, being treated for their injuries.
In another statement, Castro County Judge Mandy Gfeller lamented the damage as “a devastating loss that will impact many.”
“I am so thankful for our first responders as well as the neighboring counties that sent aid to Castro County,” the judge’s statement adds. “I commend their swift response and quick thinking to help save lives. While the loss of so many animals and property is devastating I am so thankful that there was no loss of human life. I am praying for restoration for South Fork Dairy.”
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, but is currently under investigation.