Community Remembers Victims of Sugar Refinery Explosion on Third Anniversary

Three years ago, the area was rocked by a massive and deadly explosion at the Imperial Sugar plant in Port Wentworth.

The blast happened on February 7, 2008, after sugar dust ignited and caused an explosion and fire at the refinery.

Eight people were killed inside the plant. Another six died from burn injuries. More than thirty others were injured.

People gathered Monday night in Savannah to mark the third anniversary of the tragedy, still fresh in many people's minds. The healing still continues today.

"Each year as we hold this memorial service, we pray to God that this never happens again."

Words of faith echoed through St. Philip Monumental AME Church, as family, friends and the community came to remember those who lost their lives three years ago.

"I knew that where they said the explosion was, he was gone because he was in the break room at that time. cause he always told us what time was his break and where he'd go," said Sondra Barnes, who lost her brother, Eric. She described him as a gentle man who never had a harsh word for anyone.

"With our family, even though Eric is gone, we don't only think about him today. He's with us all year round," she said.

As the name of each person who lost their lives rang out, a candle was lit in their memory.

But with the sadness over those lost was also hope, as those affected found comfort in prayer and song.

"Although it's been 3 years, today is a day of remembrance and a day of thought and prayers, as our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families," said George Muller, vice president of Imperial Sugar.

Most of all, these families want the memory of their loved ones to live on.

"We can't forget what happened," said Barnes.

Earlier Monday, employees of Imperial Sugar held their own memorial service at Legacy Park, the monument dedicated outside the plant in memory of the victims.

Congressman John Barrow (D) tells News 3 he plans to introduce legislation to force the adoption of dust standards to prevent the possibility of a similar disaster in the industry.