An explosion and fire have torn through a biscuit factory near the central Greek city of Trikala, killing at least three workers and leaving two others unaccounted for, authorities said Monday.
The blast occurred during the night shift at the Violanta S.A. plant, triggering a major fire that sent thick, black smoke into the sky.
The fire brigade said about 40 firefighters and 13 fire engines battled the flames.
Officials said eight of the 13 people at the factory managed to escape, while three bodies were recovered from the building, about 320 kilometers (2000 miles) north of Athens. Two people were reported missing as search operations continued, according to fire officials.
The cause of the explosion remained unclear. Violanta S.A. said it was focusing on supporting employees and their families, according to a statement carried by the Athens News Agency.
Six people, including a firefighter, were treated at a hospital in Trikala, mainly for breathing problems, Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis told ERTnews radio, adding that none were in life-threatening condition.
Investigators and disaster response teams remained at the scene as authorities worked to determine what triggered the explosion.
