Asthmatic's Death Linked to Praxair Explosion

By Merylee Robbins

Published on February 17, 2006

Medical examiners believe that Minnie Cooper, 32, was exposed to noxious fumes and smoke resulting from the massive explosion for approximately 45 to 90 minutes, which triggered a severe asthma attack. When she arrived home, Cooper used her nebulizer to administer medication that typically relieves breathing distress. Later Minnie's daughter went upstairs to check on her and found her mother laying unconscious on the floor. Once Cooper arrived at the hospital, her brain had been deprived of oxygen for too long and was permanently damaged. She died a few days later.

Before this report, officials previously believed that the Praxair explosion had not killed or seriously injured anyone. It is likely that the Cooper family will file a lawsuit against Praxair on behalf of the children.

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