LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Tragically, two workers have lost their lives following a severe explosion at a factory in Louisville, Kentucky. The incident resulted in significant structural damage to the building and shattered windows in surrounding homes and businesses, according to a statement released by the company on Wednesday.

The explosion transpired on Tuesday afternoon at Givaudan Sense Colour, a facility specializing in the production of food and beverage colorings. Emergency responders were swift, rescuing and evacuating numerous individuals from the premises, some of whom were reported to have life-threatening injuries. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg shared details in a statement issued on Tuesday night, noting that all employees present at the time of the explosion have been accounted for.

Initial reports indicated that at least 11 employees were transported to local hospitals for treatment following the explosion. As the investigation into the cause of the explosion continues, Mayor Greenberg revealed that officials had engaged in discussions with employees who were inside the plant when the incident occurred, and those employees initially stated that operations were proceeding normally at that moment.

The focus now remains on determining the exact circumstances surrounding this devastating event, as the community mourns the loss of the employees and supports those affected by the unfortunate incident.