WEST, Texas (AP) — A law enforcement officer feared dead in the explosion of a fertilizer plant has been found alive.
Waco Police Sgt. William Patrick Swanton said the missing man serves as both a constable and a volunteer firefighter. He has been hospitalized with "pretty serious injuries."
Swanton said three or four other volunteer firefighters who responded to the blaze remain missing since the explosion.
Area hospitals have treated more than 160 people for various injuries. Swanton estimated between five and 15 people may be dead.
LawOfficer: At Least 15 Killed, Over 160 Injured in Texas Fertilizer Plant Explosion
The area remains closed to residents. Rescuers are searching for survivors.
State and federal fire agencies are investigating the cause of the fire. Sheriff's deputies have been charged with investigating the deaths.
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.