WEST READING, Pa. -- Seven people are dead and more may be missing after an explosion at a chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania, on Friday, March 24.
The explosion occurred at R.M. Palmer Company, a novelty chocolate maker, around 5 p.m. on Friday. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, according to local authorities, and the victims’ names have not been released yet.
The R.M. Palmer Company released a statement on Facebook on Saturday extending condolences and counseling support options to its employees and their families:
“Dear R.M. Palmer Company Employees:
The tragic events that occurred on Friday have had a profound impact on all of us at R.M. Palmer, and we appreciate the outpouring of support as all of us continue to deal with the loss of our friends and coworkers. We offer our heartfelt condolences to those families who have lost loved ones and hope those injured will recover quickly.
We have always viewed our employees as family, and are focused now more than ever on providing any support we can to you and the families of employees directly affected by this tragedy.”
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro visited the explosion site in West Reading on Saturday and deployed the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to assist in recovery efforts.
Gov. Shapiro was joined in his visit by West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag and PEMA Director Randy Padfield.
“This morning, I was with West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag and local officials for an update on the RM Palmer factory explosion – and to pledge my Administration’s support as the community recovers,” Gov. Shapiro said in a March 25 statement. “Lori and I thank the first responders, PEMA, and Pennsylvania State Police teams on the scene. Our hearts break for the families of those who didn’t come home. As West Reading continues to confront this tragedy this morning, the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania stands with this community. We are with you – and my Administration is here to provide all the resources and support West Reading needs.”