An explosion at a Louisville, Kentucky manufacturing facility has left two people dead, and at least seven others injured, authorities said.
The blast occurred at around 3 p.m. local time at a Givaudan Sense Colour facility, a plant that makes colors used in food, in Louisville.
Officials described the explosion as a “hazardous materials incident” adding that all victims were employees of the facility.
The injured suffered burns and blast wounds. Two of them were listed in critical condition.
“We are deeply saddened to share the news that two of our team members lost their lives in this accident,” the company said in a statement.
“Several other individuals were also injured as a result.”
Evacuation and shelter-in-place orders were issued for residents within a 1-mile radius of the scene but officials later said that air monitoring was clear.
Gov. Andy Beshear asked residents of the area to comply with officials’ guidance “while responders work to secure” the scene adding that he is “praying for the safety of all involved.”
