May 28, 2026, 5:17 AM GMT
GKN Aerospace releases new statement after tank incident: 'We recognize there is more work ahead'
GKN Aerospace released a new statement on Wednesday, the day after evacuation orders were lifted for thousands of Orange County residents.
"We understand that the past several days have been difficult for residents, businesses, and the broader Garden Grove, Stanton, and surrounding Orange County communities. We are relieved that the incident has been resolved and residents have been able to return home. We are grateful to the emergency responders, public officials, technical specialists, and nonprofit organizations who worked tirelessly throughout the response.
'On behalf of the team at GKN Aerospace, I want to say how sorry we are for the uncertainty and disruption this situation has caused," said GKN Senior Vice President Steve Carlin, who oversees the Garden Grove site's programs. "I recognize how challenging this has been, particularly over the Memorial Day holiday. We are committed to understanding what occurred and identifying ways we can support those affected.'
Throughout the response, GKN specialists worked alongside fire officials, emergency responders, outside technical experts, and local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. Officials have reported that there was no chemical leak, no contamination, and have been no reported injuries.
'We are deeply grateful to OCFA and the entire first responder community for their efforts over the past several days," added Carlin. "We recognize there is more work ahead. Our focus remains on supporting the community, working closely with authorities, and continuing to ensure a safe and responsible path forward. I am personally committed to working with the Garden Grove, Stanton, and broader Orange County communities on these efforts.'
GKN Aerospace has been part of the Garden Grove community for six decades, dating back to 1966. Today, more than 500 skilled and dedicated local employees work at the site, including multi-generational families who have built careers here. The facility manufactures windows and canopies for commercial and military aircraft, as well as spacecraft.
Again, thank you to everyone who has supported the response effort over the last several days. We will continue to work closely with the appropriate authorities and remain committed to supporting our community in the days ahead."