An explosion at a plastics factory in Ibi, near Alicante in southeastern Spain, claimed the lives of three people and left seven others injured on Wednesday, according to emergency services.
The blast, triggered by a boiler explosion, sent a powerful shockwave through the industrial estate, impacting not only the factory but also a neighboring company, said Alberto Martin, director general of Valencia’s emergency service.
Among the casualties was a worker from the adjacent firm, and three of the injured are reported to be in serious condition.
Emergency services confirmed the total number of injured via a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
The explosion caused significant structural damage, partially collapsing the factory. Firefighters, ambulances, and forensic teams worked on-site, where rescue workers were seen carrying a body covered with a white sheet.
A mountain of debris, including plastics and wooden pallets, spilled through large gaps in the building’s warped metal walls.
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez extended the government’s condolences and solidarity with the victims, their families, and the emergency responders during an address to parliament.
In response to the tragedy, the Ibi town council declared three days of mourning.
The factory is operated by Industrias Climber, a company specializing in expanded polystyrene, a foam material used to protect packaged goods.
