Everett Explosion: Tanker Driver Had a Record, Donation Info

Somebody's in trouble. The trucker who took a turn too fast in Everett and caused the tanker explosion and fire that left 60 people homeless at last count had a lead foot. Casey Ross at the Herald writes:

Chad LaFrance, 30, of Dover, N.H., has three speeding violations between 2000 and 2002 in New Hampshire, with one citation for going 83 mph in a 55-mph zone in 2001, according to a spokeswoman for N.H. motor vehicle registry.

Not only that, but LaFrance had citations for driving without a valid inspection and driving an unregistered vehicle. This information raises a question--did the trucking company that hired LaFrance, PS Marston Associates LLC/Abenaqui Carriers, even perform a background check?

Beyond the blame game, services and funds are being set up for those who lost their homes if you would like to make a donation. You can donate to the Everett Fire Relief Fund (via Fox 25):

Eagle Bank
c/o Main Street Fire Relief Fund
466 Broadway
Everett, MA 02148

You can also call the Red Cross at 800-564-1234.

Image from Bizuayehu Tesfaye/AP.