Hemingray Glass Company

EXPLOSION WAS FATAL

Elmer Newkirk Died From Injuries

Sustained at DeSoto Yesterday.

The Unfortunate Man's Clothing was

Almost Burned Off - The loss Will

be Big - Lee is Recovering - No Cause

is Yet Learned.

As a result of the explosion at the Hemingray gas pumping station yesterday morning, one man is dead, and another in a serious condition. Elmer Newkirk, 26, the assistant to Bert Lee, formerly of this city, died of the injuries. The condition of Lee, who was reported dead late yesterday afternoon is still serious.

The explosion was even more serious than at first reported. The damage will reach $10,000. The pumps, engines, etc., which were demolished, are almost a total loss. The big building is also terribly damaged. The exact cause of the explosion is not known. Mr. Hemingray has employed a trained nurse from Indianapolis, and she is now with Lee, who may recover. The stopping of the big pumps caused the flow of gas to stop at the Muncie factory and for a short time yesterday evening it was forced to close. The men were burned in a terrible manner, their clothing being ignited by the fire inside the building. When they reached the outside the wind fanned the flames and the men had their clothing torn from them by friends who were attracted by the explosion.

Newkirk, who was married two years ago, was buried this afternoon. His body was so terribly burned that the early burial was advised. Muncie physicians were called to the scene and they attended the unfortunate man.

The station will be repaired and put in condition for operation as soon as possible. Until this work is completed the Hemingray glass officials will operated their factory with gas procured from other manufacturers, with whom they are negotiating to-day.

LEE IS DEAD.

Bert Lee died at 3:45 o'clock this afternoon of his injuries.