Three people have been confirmed dead and several injured in an explosion at the RM Palmer Factory, a historic chocolate factory in Pennsylvania, authorities have confirmed.
On Saturday night, the West Reading Borough Police Department confirmed to FOX 29 Philadelphia that three people were dead and five were missing following the violent explosion Friday night.
Debris after an explosion at the RM Palmer chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania. (WTXF)
On Saturday morning, officials say there were “a silver lining” after one person was found alive in the rubble of the deadly explosion.
“Someone was found alive in the rubble and it was life or death,” West Reading City Council Deputy Speaker Philip Wert told a news conference. “We found the person and now they have a second chance.”
Their identities and current status have not yet been disclosed.
An explosion at the RM Palmer chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania killed two people and left nine missing. (WTXF/screen grab)
On Saturday, March 25, one day after the deadly explosion and fire, RM Palmer issued a statement to extend its condolences to those who lost loved ones in the fatal accident.
“The tragic events that occurred Friday have had a huge impact on all of us at RM Palmer. We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and wish those injured a speedy recovery. Facebook post.
“I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones, and I hope that the injured will recover as soon as possible.”
“We have always considered our employees family, and we are more focused than ever on providing the best possible support to you and the families of our employees directly impacted by this tragedy.
Explosion at RM Palmer Chocolate Factory in Pennsylvania
Firefighters responded to reports of an explosion and multiple alarms at a chocolate factory in Berks County, Pennsylvania, around 5 p.m. Friday, March 24.
The blast caused extensive destruction, collapsing RM Palmer’s Building 2 and damaging Building 1. FOX 29 Philadelphia Weather cameras captured the massive explosion, sending large debris into the air and leaving behind a thick, billowing cloud of smoke.
At a press conference Saturday morning, officials said recovery work was still underway as rescue workers on the scene searched for survivors.
A Tower Health spokeswoman said eight people were taken to Reading Hospital. One victim was transferred to another facility, two were in good condition and five were discharged.
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“There was a loud roar and the house shook,” Liz Soto, who was near the explosion, told Fox 29. She also said she hadn’t heard from a friend of hers who works inside the factory.
“She went to work. It’s been confirmed that she went to work, but we don’t know anything about her,” Soto told the outlet.
“My heart hurts for the family who couldn’t go home…we are with you.”
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro visited the site of the blast on Saturday and promised resources for first responders to continue rescue efforts.
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“Our hearts go out to the families of those who have been unable to return home…we stand with you. My Administration is here to provide all resources and support the needs of West Reading. ”
Fox News’ Elizabeth Pritchett contributed to this report.
