At least two people were killed and several others injured after an explosion on Tuesday at a factory in Louisville, Kentucky, which partially collapsed the building and shattered windows in nearby homes and businesses, UNN reports, citing CBS News.
Details
The explosion occurred around 3 p.m. local time at the Givaudan Sense Color plant, which produces food and beverage coloring.
The company was the first to confirm the deaths in a statement to CBS News late Tuesday night. "We grieve with the families, friends and loved ones of those who have been killed and injured during this very difficult time," Givaudan said.
At least 12 employees were taken to hospitals, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and local emergency medical services said Tuesday night. It is unclear if any of them were killed. Thirteen other victims were not transported to hospitals, an EMS official told CBS News.
Firefighters rescued and evacuated numerous people from the building, including some with life-threatening injuries, Greenberg said in a statement, adding that the Louisville Fire Department was combing the building and working with the company to determine if all employees had been located.
The cause of the explosion is under investigation. Givaudan said it is "cooperating with first responders and support agencies." Greenberg said officials have spoken to employees at the plant and they "initially reported that everything was normal when the explosion occurred.
Louisville Fire Chief Brian O'Neill said that air monitoring began immediately after the explosion and "there has been nothing to indicate any chemical issues in the air in this entire region at this time." O'Neill also said that firefighters "don't know exactly what types of leaks may have occurred or may be continuing," but he urged residents to remain calm.
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In April 2003, an explosion at the same location killed a worker at a caramel dye plant owned by D.D. Williamson & Co. Givaudan acquired the plant from D.D. Williamson in 2021.