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A massive explosion leveled the RM Palmer Chocolate Factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania Friday night. The blast resulted in a four-alarm fire. The Pennsylvania chocolate factory explosion killed at least seven people, as of March 26th. Due to the widespread devastation caused by the Pennsylvania chocolate factory explosion, emergency personnel are contemplating the grave prospect that the any individuals still missing might not have survived the blast.
As mentioned a moment ago, the RM Palmer Chocolate Factory building itself was completely destroyed in the explosion. Another structure, containing a church and apartments, is situated next to the chocolate factory. The explosion was so intense that the church and apartment building was flung four feet forward. That structure remains standing but is significantly off its foundation and is no longer usable. Questions of whether or not anyone in the church and apartment building has been injured were outstanding as of mid-morning Saturday.
Due to the significant impact of this catastrophic incident, the explosion accident attorneys at The Doan Law Firm will continue to monitor events. Answers to questions and concerns about the Pennsylvania chocolate factory explosion can be obtained any time of the day or night by calling us at (800) 349-0000.
While it appears that all deceased, injured, and missing RM Palmer Chocolate Factory workers have been identified, the names of these individuals have not yet been released. The names of the victims of this calamity are not being made public pending notification of next of kin. In addition, as of Saturday morning, the status of those individuals who are hospitalized as a result of the blast and blaze has also not been made public.
Investigators have only just commenced an investigation into the cause of the RM Palmer Chocolate Factory explosion and fire. While officials have not yet affirmatively identified the cause of the catastrophic explosion in West Reading, preliminary indications is that the blast was the result of a gas leak.
Multiple agencies will be involved in the investigation of the cause of the explosion. There is no specific timeframe regarding the course of that investigation. The process is apt to include local, state, and federal agencies, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA.
According to West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag, no widespread evacuation has been ordered as result of the explosion and resulting fire. With that said, Mayor Kaag did state that city officials have asked everyone to stay out of a one-block radius around the site of the explosion. The smoke plume rising from the fire is not thought to contain any harmful toxic chemicals because of the nature of the destroyed factory.
Mayor Kaag did confirm that the factory building is “pretty leveled.” She went on to add that “unfortunately there’s not too much to be able to salvage.” She additionally verified the manner in which the blast propelled the neighboring building four feet off its foundation.
The RM Palmer Chocolate Factory was founded in 1948. The company specializes in making treats specifically geared to the celebration of Easter, including chocolate Easter bunnies. In many ways, the deadly explosion occurred at the company’s peak season. The company is well known for making iconic products that include Bunny Binks, Baby Binks, Daddy Binks, and Hen & Egg.
If you or a member of your family have experienced injury or loss as the result of the RM Palmer Chocolate Factory explosion, you can reach the team at The Doan Law Firm 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays at (800) 349-0000. Pennsylvania explosion accident lawyer is available at no cost and no obligation to answer any questions you may have during this difficult time. Our Pennsylvania explosion accident lawyer team never charges an attorney fee unless we win your case for you.