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ID Released For Worker Killed In Factory Explosion In Hudson Valley

NEW WINDSOR, N.Y. – Officials have identified the worker killed in a huge explosion and fire at the Verla International manufacturing plant in New Windsor on Monday. 

One death was confirmed at the Verla International cosmetics plant explosion.

One death was confirmed at the Verla International cosmetics plant explosion.

Photo Credit: Jeff Babcock/Facebook

The Medical Examiners Office positively identified the deceased worker as William Huntington, 57, of Newburgh, said a statement from Town of New Windsor Police Lt. Michael Farbent.

“Bill was a valued employee, and we at Verla are sorry to his friends and family for their loss,” said a statement from Verla International.

He was unaccounted for after the fire was in progress, Farbent said. At about 7:30 p.m. Monday, members of the Vails Gate Fire Department with assistance of the New Windsor Fire Department and the New Windsor Highway Department were conducting firefighting operations and overhauling the building in the area of the initial explosion. 

During this operation, Huntington's body was found in the building, Farbent said. 

New Windsor Police Detectives, ID Unit, and the Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene to investigate.

Firefighting operations continued at Verla until 12:15 a.m. Tuesday. 

The explosions and subsequent fire injured more than 30, including seven Newburgh firefighters. 

The massive fire had sections of Temple Hill Road (Route 300) closed down until early Tuesday morning. During the fire, authorities also issued "shelter in place" warnings for the surrounding homes, businesses and schools. 

An investigation into the cause of the explosions is ongoing. 

Check back to Daily Voice for updates.

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