Bruscella factory in Modugno destroyed by explosion, with death toll unknown as firefighters unable to enter for at least 24 hours due to fire

At least six people have died in an explosion at a fireworks factory near Bari, on Italy’s Adriatic coast.

The explosion on Friday destroyed the Bruscella factory in Modugno.

The death toll might rise once firefighters are able to gain full access to the site.

Prosecutor Giuseppe Volpe said it will take at least a day for the flames to go out so firefighters can get inside.

Two Canadair firefighting planes were flying overhead to try to douse the fire, which has spread to nearby forests.

The factory was in full swing as many of Italy’s small towns celebrate religious festivals at this time of year with fireworks shows.

Dead people

Vincenzo Armenise, Italy

Giuseppe Pellegrino, Italy

Vincenzo De Chirico, Italy

Banga Harbaajan, India

Nigah Kumar  India

Merja Samir, Albania

Persons injured

Michele Bruscella, Italy

Vincenzo Bruscella, Italy

Michele Pellicani, Italy

Riccardo Postiglione,  Italy

Antonio Pertino, Italy