Chocolate factory exploded in Pennsylvania (3 photos + 2 videos)

The explosion was so powerful that cars parked nearby literally flew into the air.





The incident took place in West Reading, Pennsylvania Friday at 17:00. At the RM Palmer Co. factory, which since 1948 produced "chocolate novelties", employed 850 employees. Majority was just finishing up the day when the explosion went off.



The factory building was located in a densely built-up area, next to residential buildings and churches. West Reading County Police Chief Wayne Holben stated that "the explosion is so strong that this building moved four feet ahead."

Two people died, 8 were injured to varying degrees severity and were urgently hospitalized to the nearest hospital, and 9 to are still listed as missing.

"Rescue work is still underway at the scene," an official said.

The explosion is believed to have been caused by a gas leak. Two the factory buildings are almost completely destroyed. Witnesses reported that heard an explosion at a candy factory, and soon saw a flame.



The factory specialized in seasonal products for Easter, Halloween and Valentine's Day.