A powerful explosion at a cocoa butter processing facility in Gloucester County critically injured four workers and triggered a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents.
Logan Township, NJ – A powerful explosion rocked an industrial complex in Logan Township Wednesday afternoon, critically injuring four people and prompting officials to issue a shelter-in-place order for residents and businesses within two miles of the blast site.
Key Points
• Explosion occurred at Savita Naturals facility on Heron Drive around 2:36 p.m.
• Four workers suffered critical injuries and were transported to hospitals
• Shelter-in-place order was later lifted as air monitoring showed no hazards
The explosion occurred at Savita Naturals, a company that processes cocoa butter for the chocolate industry, according to the Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities said four people inside the building were critically injured in the blast. A fifth person working at a nearby business suffered a medical emergency during the incident and was also transported to a local hospital.
The explosion caused extensive damage to the facility and a neighboring building.
Shelter-in-place ordered during emergency response
Officials initially ordered residents and businesses within a two-mile radius of Heron Drive and High Hill Road to shelter in place while emergency crews assessed the situation.
According to Gloucester County Emergency Management, the order was later lifted after air monitoring showed no hazardous conditions in the surrounding community.
Firefighters and hazardous materials teams remained on scene monitoring the controlled burn-off of additional fuel products stored at the facility.
Cause of explosion under investigation
Investigators said the explosion originated inside the building. Authorities confirmed that a significant amount of propane is stored on the property, though officials have not yet determined whether it played a role in the blast.
More than a dozen local, county, and state agencies responded to the scene.
The explosion was reportedly heard miles away, with residents across parts of South Jersey and even nearby Delaware reporting a loud boom. Witnesses also said the blast could be heard in Harrison Township, roughly 10 miles from the site.
Officials said all individuals believed to be at the facility at the time of the explosion have been accounted for as the investigation continues.
Tags: logan township, gloucester county, new jersey breaking news