Multiple Investigations Launched into Deadly Beirut Explosion

It’s now reported the Beirut explosion killed at least 137 people and injured about 5,000. At least one of those fatalities was an American with several more injured. Dozens of people are still missing as rescue teams enter their third day of searching. It’s reported the blast destroyed most of the capital’s main coastal port, leaving behind a crater roughly 405 feet in diameter. The Lebanese President has confirmed it was caused by almost 3,000 tons of improperly stored ammonium nitrate. The highly flammable supply was left inside a warehouse for six years. It’s believed a fire that broke out in the warehouse sparked the explosion. The Lebanese Supreme Defense Council has announced those responsible will be held to the “maximum punishment” and numerous port officials have already been put under house arrest. However, many feel it was corruption, neglect and mismanagement within the government that led to the explosion. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have also launched independent investigations into the incident.