Union solidarity for fallen brothers

Middletown (WTNH) - Five union construction workers lost their lives when a Middletown power plant exploded Sunday. Today, their union brothers paid their respects as some of the remains were removed from the rubble.

"I'm just so sorry something like this happened," said Mike Rosario, Pipefitter Local #777.

The explosion happened without warning just before 11:30am, ripping through the Kleen Energy facility that was still under construction.

"We'd like to ask everybody to pray for these people and their families," said Ed Reilly, President, Greater Hartford/New Britain Trades Council.

Union leaders tell News Channel 8 that they are not aware of any members complaining about safety at the power plant prior to the explosion.

"We hug our families, kiss our children. We got to work and we want to come home safe everyday. That didn't happen for a few yesterday," said Rosario. "It's a tragic loss for me. I lost a couple of good friends up there. My heart goes out to all the families."

A fund has also been set up to help the victims' families:
Families of Kleen Energy Tragedy
c/o MiddConn Federal Credit Union
213 Court Street
Middletown, CT 06457