Two Gas Leaks Caused Explosion Of West Reading Factory: Officials

ROYERSFORD, PA — A federal investigation disclosed Tuesday that a natural gas explosion caused the R.M. Palmer chocolate factory in West Reading, Berks County, to explode.

Susan H. Halvonik, 63, of Upper Providence Township, was one of the seven victims fatally injured during the explosion. She was a plant manager, an avid sports fan, and a baker.

Halvonik was pronounced dead in a March 24 explosion at the R.M. Palmer Company, 77 S. Second Ave., West Reading. She was one of the seven victims who died in the explosion.

The National Transportation Safety Board issued a report on July 18 stating that gas leaks came from two service tees that connect to pipes.

The report said the conclusion is preliminary and could be subject the change.

A Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said in a report that the service tees have poor performance with histories of brittle-like cracking.

On March 24, at 4:55 p.m. a natural gas-fueled explosion and fire occurred in Building 2, killing seven people and injuring 11.

At the time of the explosion, 35 office staffers and 70 production employees were working.