The bomb squad of the Naples Provincial Command is on the scene.
The blast was heard and felt kilometres away, however due to the factory being located in the isolated Gargani area, there were no other injuries.
A tall column of smoke rose from the site of the explosion and was visible for miles.
Despite the carabinieri and firefighters rushing to the spot in quick response, unfortunately after a search they located the lifeless body of a 51-year-old male employee.
He was the only worker on site at the laboratory where pyrotechnic substances are mixed.
Photos from the site revealed charred trees, the silhouette of the structure and a crater where the explosion occurred.
“It was a very strong explosion,” the mayor of Roccarainola, Giuseppe Russo, said on news site, L’Unione Sarda.
“... many poured into the street, and were coming out of the houses terrified.
“And sadly we mourn a victim.
“Fortunately, as required by law, the factory is located on a hill, in an area far away and isolated from the town.
“Nonetheless, the scare was enormous, also in light of the precedent of many years ago which involved the same factory.”
ANSA
