(AP) – The president of Bartlett Grain Co. is vowing to rebuild an elevator that exploded in Atchison, killing six people and injuring two others.

During a memorial service for the six victims Wednesday, Bartlett president Jim Hebenstreit asked Atchison residents to have faith in the company. He said the day of the explosion — Oct. 29 — was the darkest day in the company’s history.

Hebenstreit said everyone at Bartlett is eager to find out what caused the explosion. And he said he believed the investigation would show the company was operating safely.

Gov. Sam Brownback also spoke at the memorial, saying the state of Kansas is mourning those who were killed or injured and praying for
their families and friends.