Two-alarm blaze spews toxic smoke, schools closed

RICHMOND, Calif. - An explosion and fire at a plastics factory killed one worker and forced the cancellation of classes at seven nearby schools, officials said.

Residents also were urged to close their windows Thursday to keep out billowing toxic smoke.

The two-alarm fire began Thursday about 2 a.m. at MBA Polymers, Inc., a research and commercial recycling operation.

Firefighters around 5:30 a.m. found the body of 26-year-old Jeremiah Spritz under debris and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Four other workers were treated for smoke inhalation.

The cause of the fire had not been determined.

People living near the plant were told to stay indoors and keep windows closed.

Students were sheltered in school offices and their parents were notified. The schools affected were Peres Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Washington Elementary, Nystrom Elementary, Verde Elementary, Harbor Way Academy and Gompers Continuation High School.