Federal charges have been brought against the owner of an old bowling ball factory that burned down in 2019 in St. Louis County, Missouri.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Missouri claims that John S. Wonders, who acquired Faball Enterprises, Inc. in the late 1980s, is responsible for the hazardous waste found in the facility after the fire. Wonders changed the business name to Visionary Bowling Products, LLC in 1999 and continued running it until 2018 or 2019, when the City of Jennings took over due to unpaid taxes.
According to prosecutors, from July 2019 to October 2019, John Wonders Sr. and Jason Wonders left containers of dangerous chemicals in the building without proper authorization, violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
The abandoned factory caught fire on October 21, 2021, causing multiple fire departments to respond and evacuate nearby residents and businesses. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources found hundreds of decaying containers in the building, prompting the need for federal assistance in removing them.
John Wonders and Jason Wonders have been charged with unlawfully storing hazardous waste, as stated in the indictment.
This incident sheds light on the importance of proper hazardous waste disposal and the potential risks associated with neglecting environmental regulations. It serves as a reminder for business owners and property managers to adhere to guidelines to prevent dangerous situations like the fire at the bowling ball factory.
Ensuring that hazardous materials are stored, handled, and disposed of correctly is crucial for the safety of the community and the environment. Violations can lead to severe consequences, as seen in this case with the legal action taken against the owners of the abandoned factory.
It is essential for authorities to monitor and enforce regulations related to hazardous waste to prevent incidents that could harm public health and the ecosystem. By holding individuals accountable for improper waste management practices, we can work towards creating a safer and cleaner environment for everyone.
