MELROSE SOUTH FINED FOR 2001 DEATH, INVOLVED IN 2007 ACCIDENT

The South Carolina company involved in a tragic fireworks explosion that claimed four lives Saturday had a previous citation for a prior accident.

Melrose South Pyrotechnics’ plant near Rock Hill, which employed the four people killed when a truck full of fireworks for the Ocracoke Island, N.C. Fourth of July show exploded, was levied a $20,000 fine after a 2001 explosion that left one dead.

According to the Associated Press, the company had been cited for a lack of training and improper storage but paid a lower fine without acknowledging any wrongdoing.

A pair of Melrose South employees also were injured during a 2007 fireworks show in Fort Stewart, Ga.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced Tuesday it was involved in the Ocracoke Island investigation. Melrose South said they are complying fully with the investigation.

Photo: AP