Officials have reported that two people have lost their lives while nine others remain missing following an explosion at a candy factory in eastern Pennsylvania on Friday. The incident took place just before 5 p.m. at the R.M. Palmer Company facility in West Reading, and the cause of the explosion is still under investigation, according to West Reading Police Chief Wayne Holben.
While speaking at a press conference on Friday night, Holben assured that there was no danger to the surrounding area at that time. However, he advised the residents to avoid the location and follow the instructions of law enforcement and emergency personnel.
The explosion resulted in the hospitalization of at least eight people, and among them, one patient has been transferred, two are in fair condition, and the other five will be discharged, as reported by a spokesperson for Reading Hospital. The hospital sent six ambulances, including their mass casualty incident vehicle, to the scene following the explosion.
West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag stated that the factory building had been leveled, and there was significant damage due to the explosion. She added, "There is not too much to salvage from it."
R.M. Palmer Company is a candy manufacturer that has been operating since 1948 and has been at its present location since 1959, as stated on the company's website.
The rescue efforts will continue throughout the night, according to Holben, and West Reading is approximately 50 miles northwest of Philadelphia.