Explosion at 70-year-old chocolate factory caught on camera
A massive explosion rocked Reading, Pennsylvania on Friday evening, sending debris flying through the air and triggering a multi-alarm fire. The address in early reports matches that of R.M. Palmer Company, an over-70-year-old chocolate company and a staple in the Reading community. On Friday afternoon, an explosion at R.M. Palmer Co. chocolate factory in West Reading, southeastern Pennsylvania, led to two fatalities, eight injuries, and five people missing. West Reading Borough Police Department Chief Wayne Holben confirmed the death toll and the number of missing people. However, officials reported on Saturday morning that one person was found alive after being pulled from the rubble. Fox 29 provided the update.
According to Tower Health spokeswoman Jessica Bezler, eight people were taken to Reading Hospital with injuries on Friday evening. Two individuals were admitted and are currently in fair condition, while five others were treated and released. She added that one victim was transported to another facility. Limited details are available on that person’s condition.
According to FOX 29 Philadelphia, firefighters were called to the factory following reports of an explosion and a multi-alarm fire. The incident caused significant destruction, leveling Building 2 and damaging Building 1. The outlet’s weather camera captured the massive explosion, which sent large debris flying into the air and created a thick, billowing smoke cloud.
“The candy factory is known for its seasonal novelties, like chocolate Easter bunnies, and is one of America’s largest and most innovative confectioners,” Fox News added.