A talented scientist who died after an explosion at an industrial estate in South Wales has been named as Danielle Evans as family describe her as a ‘whirlwind of a woman’. 

Emergency services were called to the Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taff, at 7pm on Wednesday following reports of an explosion and a fire which destroyed several businesses. 

A major incident was declared with the two-storey building described as ‘totally alight’ and ‘at risk of collapse’ by the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

Searches were carried out at the site on Thursday after a person was unaccounted for, leading to the discovery of the body.

Microbiologist and company director Danielle was believed to be finishing work at a family-run food testing business when she was caught up in the explosion. 

In a heartbreaking tribute issued through South Wales Police, her family said: ‘She leaves a gaping hole in her family and friends’ hearts, which will never be replaced.’

They described her as a ‘fiercely loyal and loving wife’ with an ‘infectious energy’.

A woman who died after an explosion at an industrial estate in Treforest, south Wales, has been named as talented scientist Danielle Evans.

Microbiologist Danielle was unaccounted for after a fireball was sent soaring into the sky and destroyed several businesses

Emergency services at the scene of an explosion on the Treforest Industrial Estate, in Pontypridd, South Wales on December 14, 2023

A large plume of smoke rises from a fire at the Treforest Industrial Estate in Pontypridd, Wales, on December 14, 2023

The family statement said: ‘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.

‘She was a fiercely loyal and loving wife. 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.’

In a tribute issued through South Wales Police, her 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.’

Danielle was described in a tribute as an intelligent, caring and beautiful soul

Danielle’s business, Celtic Food Laboratories describes itself as an ‘independent privately owned food testing laboratory that specialises in the microbiological testing of food and food products.’ 

Barber Andrew Cox lost his salon and cutting tools in the blast but says he has been ‘overwhelmed by the kindness and support’ following the tragedy.

Posting on Facebook, he said ‘Firstly myself and my family would like to send condolences to everyone who knew the lady who horrifically lost her life last night in the explosion.

‘Words cannot describe how sorry we are, and we send our thoughts to her family.’

Crossfit centre Mindset Gym was also damaged in the blast.

A photo taken from a car showed the building engulfed by flames and smoke rising

Police, fire and ambulance services in attendance at a major incident after an explosion on an industrial estate

A fire broke out on Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taf, in the early evening on Wednesday

Emergency services were called to premises in Severn Road, Treforest Industrial Estate, Rhondda Cynon Taff, at 7pm on Wednesday following reports of an explosion and a fire

In a statement, it said: ‘Our thoughts and prayers go out to the lady’s family and community after such a tragic accident.

‘Mindset has a very strong veteran community and one thing we do really well at Mindset is make sure that those who pay the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten and are always remembered.

‘Mindset will do everything to show support to the lady’s family and keep her legacy alive.’

South Wales Police said investigations continue into the cause of the explosion and fire at Treforest Industrial Estate with help from the Health and Safety Executive and fire service.

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.

‘Our inquiries are ongoing to establish the cause of the incident, and these enquiries are being carried out in partnership with relevant agencies.

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