Investigation launched into East Providence explosion

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office launched an investigation into the cause of Wednesday night’s explosion at Aspen Aerogels in East Providence, which sent 13 people to the hospital.

East Providence officials said the blast happened shortly after 8:00 p.m. at the company’s plant on Dexter Road, where police, firefighters, and EMS crews arrived to find multiple injured workers. No major injuries have been reported.

Roberto DaSilva said the city declared a mass casualty incident to activate regional mutual aid and alert nearby hospitals as ambulances from surrounding Rhode Island and Massachusetts communities responded to assist. 

East Providence Fire Chief Michael Carey said the explosion occurred during part of Aspen Aerogels’ manufacturing process involving the drying of material in an oven. Fire crews were able to contain the blaze, though the building sustained significant damage. 

Dexter Road remained closed overnight as emergency crews secured the scene and investigators continued their work.