An explosion at a chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvaniaon Friday evening, has killed at least two people, and left five others missing according to authorities,

West Reading officials said Saturday they could confirm only two fatalities.

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency had earlier said there were five fatalities, citing county emergency management
officials, but after an update from the county also indicated that two had died and five were missing.

 

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.

Cause of explosion investigated

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)