Surviving worker from Arvin explosion released from hospital

By Associated Press Published: Jun 20, 2012 at 4:07 PM PDT
Surviving worker from Arvin explosion released from hospital
A man is rushed to the hospital following an oil tank explosion that killed his co-worker Tuesday, June 19, 2012, in Arvin.

ARVIN, Calif. (AP) — Hospital officials say a metal recycler is recovering at home after being burned in a Kern County oil tank explosion that killed his co-worker.

Scott Robles was airlifted from the accident scene Tuesday suffering from burns. Officials with Kern Medical Center said Wednesday that he had been discharged.

Robles was part of a two-person crew using a torch to remove pipes for a scrap metal recycling company when vapors inside the tank ignited and caused the explosion.

Kern County sheriff's officials say 24-year-old Cesar Martinez, of Arvin, died at the scene.

Sheriff's officials say the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is investigating the incident.