LOUISVILLE (AP) – Two employees have died following an explosion at a Louisville, Kentucky, factory that caused a partial collapse of the building and blew out windows in nearby homes and businesses, the company said yesterday.
The explosion occurred on Tuesday afternoon at Givaudan Sense Colour, which produces colorings for food and drinks.
“We are grieving with the families, friends, and loved ones of those that were lost and injured during this very difficult time,” the company said in a statement.
Firefighters rescued and evacuated many people from the building, including some with life-threatening injuries, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said in a statement on Tuesday night. Greenberg said officials have accounted for everyone who was working at the plant at the time.
It was earlier reported that at least 11 employees were taken to hospitals. The cause was under investigation. Greenberg said officials spoke to employees inside the plant and they “initially conveyed that everything was normal activity when the explosion occurred”.
The company said that it was in the early stages of investigating the cause and it is cooperating with authorities.
“We appreciate their heroic response and send our thanks to those in the community who have shown their support throughout the day,” the company said.
Patrick Livers lives in a neighbourhood immediately across the railroad tracks from the plant. He was at work when his mother, who had picked up his children from school and was bringing them home, called to say his home had been damaged by the explosion.
