Central California Organizations at Odds over Explosion Liability

The Fresno County Sheriff’s Foundation for Public Safety has filed a claim against the county seeking reimbursement after an employee struck a gas pipeline and caused an explosion in April.

The county employee was building a dirt berm at a shooting range run by the foundation, which says it is protected from legal liability at the range through a contract with Fresno County.

The Fresno Bee reported the foundation is asking for damages and reimbursement for legal costs to defend itself in lawsuits over the explosion, which killed one worker and injured 12 others. County officials did not immediately respond.

The county has appealed fines from the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration related to the explosion. It is expected to reject other claims stemming from the explosion.