Explosion at O'Hare Triggers Hazmat Response

A battery explosion at O'Hare Airport late this morning triggered a hazardous materials response and some tense moments for respondents.

The explosion occurred around 10:30 a.m. when an industrial battery, packed in a checked case on a flight from Washington, DC's Dulles Airport, accidentally discharged. A United Airlines employee suffered burns on his arm and a Level 1 Hazmat situation, which involves a gas, liquid or solid spill with a minimal or moderate risk to public health, was called.

The owner of the luggage in which the battery was packed was questioned and released by authorities.