Explosion Rocks Gym in South Wales, Fears for Missing Individual
A catastrophic explosion at Mindset Gym on Treforest Industrial Estate in Pontypridd, South Wales, has sparked chaos and a major rescue operation.
Reports suggest that the multi-storey building, home to the gym, is on the verge of collapse, leaving fears that someone might still be trapped beneath the rubble.
Survivor’s Account and Police Response
Survivors described the harrowing experience, with one, Bailey Wright, expressing gratitude for escaping the blast.
She highlighted the swift actions of Mindset Functional Fitness staff in evacuating everyone, considering it a miracle that no injuries were reported. South Wales Police have declared the incident a major one, and a search for the unaccounted-for individual is underway.
Intensity of the Explosion and Building Collapse
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Dewi Rose revealed the fire services’ immediate response to repeated calls following the explosion.
The building, a large multi-use two-storey commercial premises, is reportedly completely engulfed in flames and at risk of collapse. The telecom company Integer Telecom, situated in the same building, confirmed the destruction of their premises but assured the safety of all their staff.
Community Impact and Witness Accounts
Residents in the vicinity, including Jonny Foxhall and Allyson Richards, shared their shock and experiences following the explosion.
Richards described the house-shaking impact of the blast, prompting immediate concern and investigation into the source. Reports of the explosion also led to heightened alertness in local emergency departments.
Ongoing Emergency Response and Concern for Victims
Emergency services, including South Wales Police and firefighters, remain active at the scene, managing the extensive fire and assessing the situation.
The concern for the safety and well-being of those affected continues to grow, with fears for potential injuries and the devastating impact on local businesses, such as a nearby tattoo studio and car dealership.
Community Response and Official Statements
Local representatives, including Councillor Karl Johnson, and Member of Parliament Alex Davies-Jones, have provided initial assessments of the incident’s impact.
Witnesses, including tattoo artist Lucy Artiss and football coach Charlotte Preen, lament the destruction of their workplaces and express shock at the magnitude of the explosion.
Urgent Warnings and Ongoing Investigations
As emergency services continue to manage the situation, Heledd Fychan, Welsh Senedd member, urges people to heed warnings and avoid the affected area.
South Wales Police remain active at the scene, investigating the circumstances surrounding the explosion. The search for the missing individual remains a top priority amidst ongoing efforts to control the fire and assess the extent of the damage.
