Blowtorch ignites residual fuel in tank at Hara Arena; 2 workers burned

TROTWOOD — UPDATE @ 11 a.m.: 

Two workers, hired to remove items from Hara Arena, suffered burns while using a blowtorch to cut through an old fuel tank, according to firefighters.

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Fire crews were dispatched initially on reports of a fire at the arena around 9:30 a.m., but quickly reported the building was not on fire.

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The two workers were cutting through the old metal fuel tank when some residual fuel inside the tank was ignited by the blowtorch, investigators.

Both were burned on their faces and chests and were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Their injuries are believed to be non-life threatening.

Additional details were not available.

FIRST REPORT

At least one, possibly two people, have reportedly suffered burn injuries caused by a blowtorch at Hara Arena in Trotwood Thursday morning.

Fire crews were initially dispatched on reports of a possible fire at the arena around 9:30 a.m.

Firefighters found no active fire when they arrived at the scene, according to initial reports. However, two people reportedly suffered burn injuries to their arms, chest, and face, emergency scanner traffic indicates.

We have a crew on the way and we’ll update this page as we learn more.