By Smartencyclopedia News Desk with Agencies
Louisville, Kentucky — A devastating explosion at the Givaudan Sense Colour plant in Louisville killed at least two people and injured multiple others on Tuesday, shaking nearby neighborhoods and blowing out windows across homes and businesses. The blast, which occurred around 3 p.m., caused a partial collapse of the plant’s structure and sent debris into surrounding areas, local authorities confirmed.
The explosion’s impact was felt up to a mile away. Tyler McClain, a resident, said he was inside his home when he heard a “huge explosion,” describing how his entire house shook from the force of the blast. Another nearby resident, Patrick Livers, was at work when his mother informed him of the damage to their family home, which had blown-out windows and broken doors. “All the neighbors’ windows busted out, doors blown in. It looked like a small tornado went off inside the house,” Livers said.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed condolences on behalf of the city and confirmed that 12 employees were transported to area hospitals, including seven to the University of Louisville Hospital, where two were initially in critical condition. Dr. Jason Smith, Chief Medical Officer for the University of Louisville Health, reported that decontamination procedures were implemented upon the victims’ arrival, underscoring the potential exposure to hazardous materials.
In the hours following the incident, the Louisville Fire Department led rescue and evacuation efforts, including locating injured individuals who required immediate medical care. Fire Chief Brian O’Neill stated that air monitoring began immediately after the blast, with no detected chemical issues, though officials continue to assess potential leaks.
As a precaution, Louisville EMS confirmed that 13 other injured individuals chose not to go to hospitals. The company confirmed the fatalities in a statement to CBS News, expressing profound grief and support for those affected: “We are grieving with the families, friends, and loved ones of those that were lost and injured during this very difficult time,” a spokesperson said.
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, though employees present at the plant indicated that operations were proceeding as usual just before the blast. State and federal partners, including a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives reconstruction team, are now assisting with the investigation. Givaudan pledged its cooperation, with Mayor Greenberg and fire department officials assuring the public that the probe will be thorough.
This incident recalls a 2003 explosion at the same location, then operated by D.D. Williamson & Co., where a fatal accident resulted from a missing pressure relief valve on a tank. Givaudan acquired the site in 2021 and has since conducted operations producing colorings for food and beverages.
As the investigation continues, officials have asked nearby residents to remain vigilant. Fire Chief O’Neill reassured the community: “Nothing at this point has ever shown any type of chemical problems in the air in this entire region.” However, he emphasized the need to remain alert until further assessments are completed.
For residents like Steve Parobek, who used makeshift coverings to block his broken window against the falling temperatures, and for all impacted by this tragic incident, the days ahead will focus on recovery and restoration.