An apparent explosion and fire ripped through the Aspen Aerogels manufacturing plant on Dexter Road in East Providence on Wednesday night, April 8, sending 13 people to a local hospital and triggering a mass‑casualty declaration from city officials. Emergency crews from across the region rushed in, streets were sealed off, and residents were urged to steer clear while responders tried to get a handle on the chaos. Early word from officials on scene was that none of the injuries appeared to be life‑threatening.
What officials say
Police were called to the Aspen Aerogels facility at about 8:14 p.m. after reports of an explosion and fire, and the Office of the State Fire Marshal responded soon after, according to Boston 25 News. City officials declared a mass‑casualty incident and pulled in mutual‑aid help from Central Falls, Cranston, Lincoln, Pawtucket, Providence, Seekonk, Mass., and Smithfield fire departments. Boston 25 News reported that 13 people were transported to a nearby hospital and that none were believed to have major injuries.
Mayor's post and early scene reports
Mayor Bob DaSilva took to Facebook to confirm that the blast occurred at the Aspen Aerogels plant on Dexter Road, saying police had "located multiple people with minor injuries" inside and outside the building, as reported by NBC 10. As firefighters and rescue crews worked into the night, officials said it was still too early to say what triggered the explosion.
About the plant
Aspen Aerogels lists its East Providence manufacturing facility at 3 Dexter Road, where it produces high‑performance aerogel insulation for industrial and automotive customers, according to the company’s contact page. The East Providence operation is described as a key part of Aspen Aerogels’ U.S. production footprint, making the site an important player in local industry and the regional supply chain.
Safety and investigation
City officials urged neighbors to avoid the Dexter Road area while crews secured the scene and investigators performed an initial assessment, according to Boston 25 News. The Office of the State Fire Marshal led the on‑site probe, and mutual‑aid companies stayed on to assist as the response stretched into the evening, authorities said.
What comes next
Officials told NBC 10 that the cause of the blast remains under investigation. They said more information will be released as the State Fire Marshal’s office and local departments sort through the damage and complete their work. Authorities described the situation as developing and said they plan to provide updates as the investigation moves forward.
