Nov. 21--Four Macy's employees were injured, one seriously, when a small butane tank ruptured as they were making breakfast before the State Street store opened Friday morning, officials said.
The workers were using two stoves to prepare eggs and pancakes when the tank, the size of an aerosol can, became overheated and ruptured, according to Fire Department spokesman Larry Langford.
The accident happened about 9:30 a.m., about half an hour before the store at 111 N. State St. opened, in a basement area where cooking utensils are sold, according to fire officials and the store. Initially, fire officials said the incident happened during a cooking demonstration, but later said the workers were cooking breakfast.
"From what I understand, there was some cooking and the can got a little bit too close to the heating source," Field Fire Chief Elliott Velez said.
A woman suffered burns to her face and was taken in serious condition to Stroger Hospital, according to Chicago fire officials. Three men suffered minor injuries and were taken to other hospitals, the officials said.
Investigators are attempting to determine if there was a safety violation on the part of the workers.
Shoppers were allowed back into the lower-level area shortly after 10:30 a.m. Fire investigators could be seen huddled at the "In Clad" section where pots and pans were on display while security directed customers away.
