Editorial: With Garden Grove chemical threat over, DA's oversight begins
Thanks to some fortuitous circumstances, the ominous situation at the GKN Aerospace facility in Garden Grove has dissipated. As Orange County residents are well aware, a highly toxic chemical in a storage tank began to uncontrollably overheat - leaving a likely scenario of an explosion or a chemical leak. The county evacuated 50,000 residents over Memorial Day weekend.
The combination of cool weather and a crack in the tank that relieved pressure led to the best-possible outcome, with all residents now able to return to their homes. That's the most important result, but the next step is also important to protect residents in the future.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer warned the British-based company to preserve its records in anticipation of an investigation. Spitzer said he is looking at potential criminal violations, but reminded us that his office also has the power to pursue civil remedies.
News reports suggest that the company had previously been fined in 2021 by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) for various unrelated environmental violations. With the number of California alphabet-soup agencies overseeing every manner of business behavior, it amazes us that such a dangerous situation was not spotted earlier. The company produces windshields for aircraft.
We agree that a thorough investigation is entirely warranted and, of course, so are lawsuits seeking compensation for residents affected by the disruptions. Spitzer said his office will also look at any predatory behavior by law firms that are descending on the area looking for clients.
The key issue is preventing similar dangers from occurring again. The government should not micromanage business operations, but companies need to be held accountable if they endanger the public.
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This story was originally published May 27, 2026 at 11:52 AM.