Body found in hunt for missing person following explosion at industrial estate in South Wales
14 December 2023, 17:40 | Updated: 14 December 2023, 18:25
A body has been found following an explosion and fire at a Treforest industrial estate in South Wales on Wednesday evening.
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The force said identification has not yet been completed but specialist officers are supporting the family of the person who was unaccounted for.
Huge flames and smoke were seen after the fire broke out in Severn Road, Treforest.
Emergency services were called to the scene at 7pm following reports of an explosion and fire.
A two-storey building was "totally alight" and "at risk of collapse", South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said.
Searches for the missing person were carried out at the site during Thursday, leading to the discovery of the body.
There were no other reports of serious injuries, according to police.
Read more: Major incident declared in South Wales as huge fire breaks out following 'explosion'
Local NHS emergency departments are on "high alert" after the blaze
A police spokesperson said: "Emergency services remain at the scene of a fire at a premises on Severn Road, Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taff.
"This follows reports of an explosion at a property shortly after 7pm last night.
"Following a search of the site officers have located a body.
"While identification has not yet been completed, specially trained officers are supporting the family of the missing individual."
Flames and smoke seen after ‘explosion’ at South Wales industrial estate
Detective Superintendent Richard Jones of South Wales Police said: "Our thoughts are with the family of the missing person.
"Now that the fire has been brought under control, we will move to the investigative phase to find out what caused this explosion and subsequent fire.
"Roads are gradually being re-opened although some roads and businesses in the area will still be affected.
"I want to thank local residents and businesses for their patience and understanding while this incident is being dealt with."
A joint investigation team from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and South Wales Police, in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive are on site to determine the cause of the fire.
