US chocolate factory blast kills 2, several missing

25.03.2023, 09:07 dw.com

The explosion at a plant of R.M. Palmer Co. in Pennsylvania caused extensive damage, sending flames, smoke, dust and debris skyward. Several victims were then transported to a local hospital.

Two people were killed and nine missing after a deadly explosion occurred at a chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania on Friday evening, police said.

The blast at 4:57 p.m. local time (20:57 UTC) caused extensive damage to the R.M. Palmer Co. plant and a neighboring building. It caused flames, smoke, dust, and debris to shoot up into the sky.

"There are still rescue efforts under way at the scene," West Reading Police Chief Wayne Holden said, confirming the number of fatalities and those missing.

The R.M. Palmer Company, which has been producing seasonal candy items for over 70 years, employs around 850 individuals.

Tower Health spokeswoman Jessica Bezler told AP news agency that eight people were transported to Reading Hospital, with two in fair condition and five being treated and to be released.

The police have advised residents to avoid the factory area, located roughly 60 miles (96 kilometers) northwest of Philadelphia.

Investigators are currently attempting to determine the cause of the explosion.

ss/wd (AP, Reuters)