NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - The Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed toxic substances were found in nearby waters following the Smitty’s Supply explosion.
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According to a report provided to FOX 8, investigators detected arsenic, barium, chromium, lead and other hazardous materials in two water samples collected the day after the explosion .
An EPA spokesperson said there is no imminent threat to the public. The agency released a statement that read in part:
Here is the report:
The letter at the front of the report was dated August 25, three days after the explosion. FOX 8 and residents pressed for information, but the report was not released until August 28.
Hydrologist and water pollution expert James Co