Could the West Fertilizer explosion have been prevented?

The plant reportedly hadn't been inspected by regulators for 28 years

The remains of the fertilizer plant after the deadly explosion, as seen from above.
(Image credit: AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

The immediate aftermath of the fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas: More than 160 injured, at least 15 dead, and dozens of buildings demolished, according to Reuters.

And there is already speculation that all of that carnage could have been avoided.

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Keith Wagstaff is a staff writer at TheWeek.com covering politics and current events. He has previously written for such publications as TIME, Details, VICE, and the Village Voice.