Search resumes for two missing mill workers

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BURNS LAKE (NEWS1130) – The economic future of Burns Lake is uncertain following a massive explosion gutted the town’s mill on Friday night.  The Babine sawmill was destroyed, leaving some of the thousands of people it employed wondering when they’ll get their next paycheque.

Nineteen people were hurt in the blast, four of them critically, and two others are still missing and presumed dead.

Fire crews will be out in very cold weather today trying to pinpoint the cause of the blast.  Some workers reportedly smelled gas just before the explosion.

Some workers are holding out hope the US company that owns the operation will rebuild the plant.  But Steve Zika, CEO of Hampton Affiliates, says with damage could be as high as $100 million, and he’s not sure if rebuilding is even possible.

“I think as a community we’ll have to pull together and work through this.  I know there is a great support coming from other industries as well but it’s going to be challenging.  We’re going to have to look at new ways in how we deal with employment issues in our community,” says Burns Lake Mayor Luke Strimbold.

The mayor adds a town meeting will be held on Monday to discuss Friday’s tragedy.

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