NATION : Molasses Spill Engulfs 3 Men, Cars

GERING, Neb. — A tank containing more than a million gallons of molasses ruptured and a flood of the sticky substance carried away four vehicles, destroyed a small building and covered three workers from head to toe.

The reason for the tank rupture at the Western Sugar Co. terminal was unknown today, factory Manager John Sagasar said. The 1.2-million-gallon tank ruptured late Wednesday afternoon, sending a 10-foot wall of the molasses smashing into a nearby building where three employees were inside analyzing beet samples. They were treated for cuts and scrapes at a nearby hospital. Scotts Bluff Sheriff’s Deputy Jack Medearis said four vehicles parked near the building were carried about 25 yards to the west and northwest. All were extensively damaged.