A Minumum of One man is missing and eight accidents were reported, for example two individuals in critical condition, officials said
A minumum of one man was unaccounted for and eight others were injured early Thursday after an explosion and enormous two-alarm firing in a paint factory in Columbus, Ohio, based on reports.
The fire prompted region evacuations and delivered firefighters scrambling to have the blaze in check, officials said.
But, two individuals were trapped within the building and needed to be rescued.
"Search and rescue efforts are ongoing, as are extinguishment attempts at this moment," the announcement added.
The business was described as a -managed coatings maker.
Fire Chief Steve Martin stated hazmat crews were on the scene since the plant is home to harmful substances, Columbus's WBNS-TV reported. He added that evacuations were also underway at local companies.
Local residents posting on Twitter stated they believed the burst in the houses.
"Strong enough to shake my entire home," one resident wrote.
"It had been all around town, I believe," another wrote. "I am in fundamental Columbus, by fairgrounds. We heard that a'muted' explosion-like noise and entire house shook, windows rattled. Each of the neighbors came out of the homes, our puppy ran upstairs to find out what was occurring, etc.."
Pictures taken by inhabitants revealed a big plume of smoke rising to the skies.
The reason for the explosion was not immediately obvious.
