Huge Explosion in Puerto Rico

MIAMI (CN) - Thirty fuel tanks exploded in a suburb of San Juan, Puerto Rico, and residents of the area shaken by the explosions have filed a federal class action seeking damages from Caribbean Petroleum Co. The explosion measured 2.8 on the Richter scale and was felt as far away as the Virgin Islands.

Houses and windows trembled and the burning fuel mushroomed into a dark cloud of toxic gases. The Oct. 23 explosions were followed by fires that burned for days.

More than 1,500 people were evacuated, some with gas masks, and many say they continue to suffer from respiratory illnesses, and have not been able to return home.

Businesses had to close down and electric power went out. The class claims Caribbean Petroleum's defective equipment contributed to the disaster.

Lead attorneys in the complaint in San Juan, Puerto Rico Federal Court are Eric and Jose Quetglas-Jordan.

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