There has been no confirmation regarding the cause of the explosion, including the possibility of a gas leak.
UGI Utilities spokesperson Joseph Swope said on Saturday that teams were dispatched after the explosion caused damage that led to the release of gas, fueling the ensuing four-alarm fire. He added, “We did not receive any calls about a gas leak or gas odor before the incident, but we are cooperating with the investigation, which will include checking all our facilities in the area.”
Relatives and friends of factory employees are anxious but hopeful. Frankie Gonzalez spoke to Action News about his sister, who remains missing after the blast. “My sister went to work and never returned home. She’s one of the few people still unaccounted for. We’re hoping she found a safe spot to hide, and we’re not giving up hope.”
Gonzalez’s sister has a daughter, son, and husband waiting for her at home. The family continues to pray as rescue efforts persist through the night.
Chief of Police Wayne Holben announced that one person was discovered alive and rescued from the debris overnight on Saturday. He added, “The discovery of life overnight gives us hope that others may still be found as rescue workers continue their search for any possible survivors.”
