A devastating explosion rocked an ammunition factory in Illinois on Thursday, tragically claiming the life of a 60-year-old employee, Oscar "Zeke" R. Bettorf. The incident occurred at the Olin Corp.-owned Winchester ammunition plant, situated approximately 20 miles north of St. Louis.
Bettorf, a resident of Bunker Hill, was driving a semitrailer carrying shotgun shell primers when the explosion happened within the plant's premises. The blast's impact was felt throughout the nearby town of East Alton, with residents reporting hearing a loud boom and feeling the ground shake. Dustin Courtouise, an East Alton resident, described the force of the explosion, saying it even moved his van.
East Alton Mayor Darren Carlton confirmed the widespread impact of the explosion, stating that it was audible throughout the town. Winchester has pledged a comprehensive investigation into this tragic event and expressed their condolences to Bettorf's family and colleagues.
The Winchester plant conducts manufacturing operations in both East Alton, Illinois, and Oxford, Mississippi. The company produces ammunition for various customers, including the U.S. military.
