Naval Weapons Station Earle Operations Back to Normal After Explosion, Officials Say

Operations are now back to normal at the Naval Weapons Station Earle Waterfront Complex in Leonardo after an explosion injured eight sailors Tuesday morning, according to a Navy press release.

The injured sailors were identified as Boatswain's Mate Chief Andre Wilkes, Machinist's Mate Chief Stacy Burleson, Machinist's Mate First Class Matt Wister, Machinist's Mate First Class Heath Maloon, Engineman Third Class Ashley Pitman, Hull Technician, First Class Christopher Giannini, Lieutenant Jeff Dennison and Firefighter Inspector Mr. Michael Donahue. 

One sailor who suffered a broken arm required surgery and remains hospitalized at Jersey Shore Medical Center. The others were treated and released. 

"The explosion occurred approximately 9 a.m. this morning while personnel were doing routine maintenance on a utility boat," Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs Director Beth Baker said in a press release Tuesday. "The damage from the explosion was contained within the boathouse area."

An investigation into the explosion has been initiated to determine the cause and recommend any appropriate preventative and corrective measures, according to a Navy press release.  

This story includes reporting from Kaitlyn Anness, kaitlyn.anness@patch.com