SEWELL – Sewell Mining has announced that it is seeking two former employees as part of an ongoing investigation into the explosion that struck one of its facilities earlier this week.
According to a statement released by the company, an internal investigation has concluded that the blast was the result of deliberate sabotage involving a compromised control panel. Investigators allege that the control panel had been intentionally modified, leading to the catastrophic failure that triggered the explosion.
The company has identified two former employees, Lisa Grant and Tom Rothchild, as persons of interest in the investigation. Sewell Mining alleges that both individuals disappeared shortly after the explosion and have not been located since.
Company officials stated that they are cooperating closely with law enforcement and have submitted the findings of their internal investigation to the appropriate authorities. The company has requested that the pair be investigated on suspicion of:
Terrorism
Sabotage
Corporate espionage
Serious environmental crime
Serious endangerment of the safety of others
Causing serious harm to health
Breach of confidentiality agreement
Serious negligence
Breach of security regulations
Breach of employment contract
“We believe the evidence gathered during our internal review points to a deliberate act of sabotage,” a Sewell Mining spokesperson said. “We are working alongside investigators to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and to locate the individuals involved.”
Authorities have not publicly confirmed the company’s allegations, and no formal criminal charges have been announced at this time. Investigators are expected to conduct an independent review of the evidence before determining whether charges will be filed.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the facility and temporarily halted operations while emergency responders secured the site. Engineers continue to assess the structural integrity of the affected area as investigators examine the damaged equipment.
Officials are asking anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Lisa Grant or Tom Rothchild to contact law enforcement. They also encourage members of the public to report any information that could assist the ongoing investigation.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have emphasized that the allegations made by Sewell Mining have not yet been tested in court.
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