[One Eyed Jack]

Even though this shuttle mission has been described as "flawless", I agree with the previous posters in thinking mechanical failure. Investigators currently have little to work from regarding a cause. A tape is making the news rounds of what appears to be ice or a tile falling from the fuel tanks and striking the shuttle wing during launch that investigators are reviewing. However, this is not exactly an uncommon occurrence. In the break up replay many reporters are focusing on what looks to be an explosion (secondary not root cause).

Lots of early reports concerning debris falling coming out of Nacogdoches Texas, both town and county as well as other areas. People are warned to avoid debris due to potential life threatening toxins released by the fuel from the shuttle as it evaporates. Can cause slow suffocation in a 48 hr. period if inhaled. Call your local law enforcement agency if you spot debris. Do not approach.

Some people are sending pictures via the web of debris in their yard to news agencies.

I love the space program and watching this stuff hurts.