Treforest fire: Body found after industrial estate explosionon December 14, 2023 at 6:12 pm

A body has been found at the site of an explosion on an industrial estate in Treforest, south Wales.

The person was located after a search by South Wales Police following Wednesday night’s blaze.

Formal identification has not taken place and officers are supporting the family of a person who had been missing.

Det Supt Richard Jones said the force would now begin investigating the cause of the explosion and fire.

Emergency services remain at the scene on Severn Road on the estate in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

At least one building was destroyed and a major incident was declared for several hours after the explosion at about 19:00 GMT on Wednesday.

The fire service said a two-storey building was at risk of collapse and it had seven pumps at the scene, along with an incident command unit.

The fire was in a 60,000 sq ft (5,574 sq m) warehouse called Rizla House.

It houses 13 commercial units including a gym, a towel manufacturer, a food laboratory and a telecoms service company.

Det Supt Jones 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.”