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Five Dead, At Least Three Missing In RM Palmer Chocolate Factory Explosion (Update)

Authorities confirmed five people dead with at least three more unaccounted for in the fiery explosion at West Reading's RM Palmer chocolate factory Friday, March 24.

Palmer Township Fire Department (file photo)

Palmer Township Fire Department (file photo)

Photo Credit: Palmer Township Fire Department

One person was found alive in the rubble on Friday night, officials said at a press conference Sunday morning, March 26. Two more people were found dead on Sunday morning, March 26, police said.

Residents reported hearing the explosion around 5 p.m., bringing dozens of fire companies to the scene. At least ten victims were hospitalized at Reading Hospital, a spokesperson tells the New York Times.

Videos circulating on social media show the explosion on 2nd Avenue.

Authorities were working to identify the cause of the explosion, which West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag said during a press conference moved the building forward by four feet.

Kaag, who also serves as a firefighter, issued a declaration of emergency on Saturday morning in an effort to help gather resources.

RM Palmer Company was founded in 1948, and is known for making seasonal chocolate novelties, its website says.

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