Federal investigators have pinpointed a fractured gas fitting as the source of a natural gas leak at the R.M. Palmer Co. chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania. This leak preceded the devastating explosion on March 24th that claimed seven lives and caused extensive damage. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed that the faulty fitting, installed in 1982, had a documented history of cracking and was listed as a problematic pipe material by the federal government in 2007. A second, smaller leak was also discovered on a separate fitting installed in 2021.

The NTSB's investigation continues, and while the exact cause of the explosion remains undetermined, the gas leaks are a primary focus. Both production and office staff reported smelling gas prior to the blast, raising concerns about whether warnings were adequately addressed. Workers have alleged that the company disregarded their concerns, leading to questions about safety protocols. Around 105 employees were present in the two affected buildings at the time of the incident.

Utility company UGI Corp., which supplied natural gas to the factory, has stated that no utility work was being conducted in the vicinity and that there was no unusual spike in gas usage before the explosion. The NTSB's investigation revealed that while UGI replaced a service line at the plant in 2021, the older 1982 service tee remained connected and pressurized. The cracked fitting was situated in close proximity to other pipelines, including a steam line and lines containing heated chocolate, raising further questions about the potential chain of events leading to the explosion. A crack was also observed in the steam line.

First responders at the scene of the explosion at the R.M. Palmer Co. factory. (Ben Hasty/Reading Eagle via AP)