Treforest Industrial Estate Fire: Body Found, Cause Under Investigation
Tragic discovery:
South Wales Police confirmed today that a body was found in the search of the Treforest Industrial Estate site following a fire and explosion on Wednesday evening.
Joint investigation:
A team from South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, South Wales Police, and the Health and Safety Executive are on site to determine the cause of the blaze.
The explosion occurred at Rizla House around 7pm Wednesday.
Identification pending:
While the identity of the deceased has not yet been confirmed, specialist officers are supporting the family of the person who was unaccounted for.
Focus shifts to investigation:
Detective Superintendent Richard Jones stated, “Our thoughts are with the family of the missing person.
Now that the fire is under control, we will move to the investigative phase to find out what caused this explosion and subsequent fire.”
Gradual reopening:
Roads are gradually being reopened, though some remain affected as do businesses in the area.
Police expressed gratitude for the patience and understanding of local residents and businesses.
Fierce blaze:
Video footage from Wednesday showed a fierce nighttime blaze engulfing the multi-storey building, with thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky.
One person missing:
South Wales Police initially reported one person missing and no serious injuries.
Fire under control, pockets remain:
The fire has been largely extinguished, with only small pockets remaining.
Police initially received “repeat calls” about the blaze starting in the Mindset Gym within Rizla House.
Businesses affected:
Roads and businesses in the area continue to be impacted, though some roads are expected to reopen later today.
Local business owner anxious:
Tim Phipps, who operates a business from the ground floor, faces an anxious wait to assess the damage.
He estimates £100,000 worth of equipment is stored in the unit.
Uncertainty and worry:
Phipps expressed the uncertainty and worry many face, especially with Christmas approaching.
He added that he’s thankful no lives were lost, as others have lost their livelihoods.
Landlord recounts explosion:
Richard Hayward, the landlord of Rizla House, described a “severe explosion” on the ground floor but was unsure where the fire originated.
Tattoo studio destroyed:
Lucy Artiss, a tattoo artist at Sixteen Circles, confirmed that the explosion destroyed the entrance and the tattoo studio, as well as the gym.
Community spirit:
Despite the tragedy, Artiss described the Rizla House as a “lovely place” with a “wonderful family feel” and expressed her sadness at its loss.