14 Dead in Chinese chemical plant explosion

Fourteen people died Saturday after a chemical plant explosion in the eastern Chinese city of Xintai, state media reported. The state-run news Xinhua news agency reported the explosion occurred Saturday afternoon at plant that produces melamine, a chemical used in dishware, counter tops, whiteboards and other products. Four people died immediately, Xinhua said, citing officials in Xintai. Fifteen people were taken to the hospital, where 10 more died, the agency said. The explosion occurred as workers were performing maintenance on a condenser, Xinhua said, citing the government statement. The exact cause of the blast is under investigation.