Tributes to ‘amazing’ woman killed in South Wales industrial estate explosion

The 40-year-old’s family say she was a “whirlwind of a woman” who owned her own laboratory business

The family of the woman who was killed by an explosion in a South Wales industrial estate have shared a touching tribute to their “intelligent, caring and beautiful” loved one.

Danielle Evans was formally identified by her family this morning and they are being supported by specially trained officers, say the police. The 40 year-old owned a business called Celtic Food Labs, with a labatory located on Treforest Industrial Estate where the fire broke out.

An emergency incident was declared on Wednesday when a shock explosion rocked the estate on Severn Road, Treforest at around 7pm.

Danielle Evans was an “intelligent, caring and beautiful”, her family said (South Wales Police)

In a tribute shared by local police, Ms Evans’ family said: “Dan was a whirlwind of a woman. She leaves a gaping hole in her family and friends’ hearts, which will never be replaced. She was an intelligent, caring and beautiful soul.

“She started her own successful laboratory business - Celtic Food Labs. Poured her heart and soul into it, but the most important things to her were her husband, family, dogs and friends.

One person is still unaccounted for (EPA)

“She was a fiercely loyal and loving wife,” they continued. “The best friend anyone could hope for. She met strangers and friends with the same positive, infectious and loving energy.

“She pulled you into her orbit like nobody you will ever meet or will again. A magnet that pulled us all together.

““Her passions were science, camping, partying with her friends and quality time with her beloved family. She was an amazing aunty and cherished every second with her nieces. She came from a loving family and was so close to her mum, dad, brother, aunties and uncles, her love was boundless.

“She touched so many lives. She will be so sorely missed but my word, do we all have some amazing memories that we made and cherish.”

The blaze happened on Wednesday evening (Claire Hayhurst/PA) (PA Wire)

The family said they wanted to give a “big heartfelt thank you” to the emergency services who attended the scene and acted “professionally and heroically”.

Local NHS emergency departments were on high alert after the blaze, with people asked not to attend A&E unless absolutely necessary.

Witnesses described the “fireball” explosion and shared footage of the huge blaze that broke out. Police are still investigating the cause of the fire, with no other major injuries reported.

Detective Superintendent Richard Jones said: “Our thoughts remain with Danielle’s family, friends and work colleagues, at what is a very difficult time for them.”

“The patience and understanding of the businesses in Treforest Industrial Estate and local residents is very much appreciated whilst this work remains ongoing.”

A website has been set up to allow the public to upload mobile phone, CCTV or other video footage as well as any other information they may hold which could assist in the investigation.