GARDEN GROVE — Federal authorities served a search warrant Wednesday at GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems in Garden Grove, California. This action followed a chemical tank overheating last month at the aerospace facility, an event that led to the evacuation of 50,000 residents.
A federal judge signed a warrant approving the seizure of documents and records related to the storage, use, or disposal of methyl methacrylate. The warrant specifically authorized agents to take samples of methyl methacrylate or other hazardous substances from any suspected containers. Agents were also instructed to seize records pertaining to cooling or temperature-regulating equipment for methyl methacrylate.
The overheated tank contained 6,000 to 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate. This substance is highly flammable and can cause respiratory problems, neurological issues, and irritation to the skin, eyes, and throat, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. County health officials stated no contamination or fumes were released, and air quality and sewer and storm drains will undergo monitoring for several months.
The Orange County District Attorney's Office is conducting a criminal investigation into the plant. The District Attorney's Office issued a preservation letter to GKN, instructing the company not to alter or destroy evidence, which GKN's outside counsel confirmed receiving. Additionally, approximately 12 people and businesses filed federal lawsuits against GKN after the evacuation.
A GKN spokesperson said, "We are cooperating with authorities at our Garden Grove facility and will continue to do so." Steve Carlin, a company representative, addressed a community meeting on Tuesday evening. Carlin said, "On behalf of GKN and the Garden Grove plant I want to say that I'm sorry that this event and this incident occurred. I understand and I realized sitting here tonight what a disruptive event it was and how unsettling it is to the greater community. Particularly unsettling to us at GKN because of the long history that we have with Garden Grove and how connected we are to this community."
Carlin said the company would be willing to organize a town hall meeting for residents to ask questions. He also said that it is too early in the investigation to determine specific actions the company will take. The plant employs more than 500 people and manufactures cockpit windows, canopies, and windshields.