Key takeaways:
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report confirming that the explosion was caused by natural gas.
- At the time of the explosion, approximately 70 workers and 35 office staff were present in the two adjacent buildings.
- The tragedy has left the small town of West Reading in shock, mourning the loss of life and the destruction of the factory.
Residents of West Reading, Pennsylvania are in shock after a powerful natural gas explosion at the R.M. Palmer chocolate factory left seven people dead and caused significant damage to the surrounding area.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report on Tuesday confirming that the explosion was caused by natural gas. The report stated that the explosion destroyed one building and caused “significant structural damage” to an adjacent building and other nearby structures.
At the time of the explosion, approximately 70 workers and 35 office staff were present in the two adjacent buildings. Witnesses reported smelling a “rotten eggs” odor prior to the blast.
The NTSB’s report is consistent with earlier reporting by The Associated Press and other media outlets. The NTSB’s investigation is ongoing and the cause of the explosion is still under review.
The tragedy has left the small town of West Reading in shock. Local residents are mourning the loss of life and the destruction of the factory, which had been a part of the community for decades.
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