Apple releases statement on Foxxcon factory explosion

The Wall Street Journal reported Friday that both Foxconn and Apple have released statements about the explosion this week at one of the equipment manufacturers’ iPad factories. Reportedly at least two people died in the explosion and 16 were injured in the blast in Chengdu, China.

In a press release address to the families of those affected in the disaster, Apple stated:

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy at Foxconn’s plant in Chengdu, and our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We are working closely with Foxconn to understand what caused this terrible event.”

The company did not release any details as to the cause of the disaster, but said that it is opening an investigation into the matter, and the factory will remain closed until it finds out what the cause of the explosion was.

In a reply to an inquiry by the Wall Street Journal, Foxconn stated:

“We can confirm that at approximately 7 pm on May 20, there was an explosion at our Chengdu campus. At this point, we can also confirm that there were two fatalities with injuries to 16 other employees. We are working with medical officials to provide treatment to the injured employees and we are working with government and law enforcement officials to contact the families of all employees affected by this tragedy.

The situation has been brought under control by the fire department and the cause of this explosion is being investigated by local police officials. Foxconn is cooperating fully with that investigation. Production has been suspended at the site of the explosion until the completion of the investigation. The safety of our employees is our highest priority and we will do whatever is required to determine and address the cause of this tragic accident.”

Here at Macgasm, our hearts and prayers go out to the families affected by the disaster, and we are very grateful to all the hard-working people of China who work long days and hard hours to make the products we enjoy every day a reality.

Article Via All Things Digital
Photo Credit: Foxconn

Justin Lowery has been reading and writing about Macs and technology for nearly a decade. By day he is a web and graphic designer who creates powerful and beautiful solutions for companies and individuals worldwide. By night he writes passionately about all things Apple, technology, and design. Over the years Justin has worn the hats of writer, staff designer, art director, and freelancer.