A small explosion followed by smoke is being reported in the loading bay at Valor Tactical on Winters Avenue just east of South 12th Street. A female worker has suffered burns on her arms. There is no active fire. Fire department and police are on scene investigating.
Update: All employees are accounted for. Fire department is ventilating smoke and removing it from the building. Grand Junction Police Department are sending an explosives investigator to the building.
According to the Valor Tactical website, the business is involved in explosives manufacturing and storage. They also specialize in plating and coating that uses various chemical components.
From the Grand Junction Fire Department:
Grand Junction, CO – At 4:04 p.m., the Grand Junction Fire Department (GJFD) responded to a reported explosion at Valor Tactical Innovation, located at 1328 Winters Avenue. A 9-1-1 caller reported the explosion and requested medical assistance for an individual suffering from burn injuries.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed light smoke in the lobby and began investigating the scene. It was determined that a small quantity of combustible powder ignited inside a climate-controlled booth where materials were being mixed. Fire crews quickly confirmed that no active fire remained because of the explosion.
A representative from the Grand Junction Police Department Bomb Squad responded to assist. One individual was transported for treatment of burn injuries.
The origin and cause of the explosion are under investigation. No additional hazards have been reported at this time.
Photos by David Torres