MEDINA, Ohio — Metal fatigue may have contributed to the steam tractor explosion that killed five at the Medina County Fair in July, according to a sheriff's department investigation.

        Lt. John Detchon said a combination of low water in the engine's boiler and a worn crown sheet caused the explosion.

        “Even if it had proper water level, the boiler was in such bad shape it couldn't withstand the pressure,” he said.

        The tractor's crown sheet originally was 5/16th-inch thick but eroded over time to less than 1/16th inch.

        A crown sheet covers the engine's firebox and is exposed to severe heat. As long as the crown sheet is covered with water in the boiler, the water conducts the heat away.

        Lt. Detchon has completed a report on the accident that will be issued next week.

        “You have to understand this thing is over 100 years old,” he said of the tractor.

        Gov. Bob Taft has appointed a task force to study whether the state should inspect antique steam engines.

Family answers victim's calling
Another Ohio Guard unit put on mobilization notice
Citizens reach out with relief
City ready for the worst
Attack Notebook
Tristate senators consider airport security
Regardless of the verdict, officer faces more investigation
Ex-pastor sees few changes
Family sues city in death inquiry
Fangman to quit as FOP chief
Luken, Fuller debate debating
School chief gets praise, bonus
Tristate A.M. Report
UC faculty negotiator resigns
UC plans to buy Warren Co. land
Youngsters cast ballots
CROWLEY: Terrorists force political truce
SAMPLES: Keep laughing
Fire chief sought for troubled department
Lebanon OKs telephone deal with Cincinnati Bell
Mason to hire engineer for new storm water utility
Skills on Web boost youngsters, district
W. Clermont OKs specialized high schools
Worn metal blamed in fair deaths
$238 million to be spent on sewer upgrade
7 plead guilty in OxyContin probe
Boone to get two-year college
Expert: Restore UK building
Kentucky News Briefs
Ky. discusses its electrical future
New senator accused of illegal financing
Paralyzed able to stand with device
Pitino to walk after all
Teen charged in man's death
Trial delayed in Ky. pilot's slaying