Pennsylvania Regulators Seek $2.6M Penalties for Deadly 2023 Chocolate Factory Explosion

State utility commission alleges UGI Utilities violated standards, leading to blast that killed 7 workers

Mar. 19, 2026 at 1:18am

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Pennsylvania regulators have asked an administrative law judge to impose $2.6 million in civil penalties on UGI Utilities Inc. for violations related to a 2023 chocolate factory explosion that killed 7 workers and caused $42 million in property damage. The Public Utility Commission alleges UGI's distribution facilities serving the R.M. Palmer Company plant in West Reading violated state and federal standards, contributing to the deadly blast.

Why it matters

The tragic 2023 explosion highlighted concerns about gas utility safety and emergency response procedures, especially in industrial facilities. This case could set precedents around utility accountability and regulations aimed at preventing similar catastrophic incidents in the future.

The details

The March 2023 explosion and fire destroyed one factory building and a nearby apartment, injuring 10 people, 4 seriously. The blast was traced to a plastic service part in the street near the factory, allowing gas to flow underground into the building before igniting. The National Transportation Safety Board found the plant lacked proper natural gas emergency evacuation procedures.

  • The deadly explosion occurred in March 2023.
  • Pennsylvania regulators filed their complaint against UGI Utilities on March 18, 2026.

The players

UGI Utilities Inc.

A gas utility company serving customers in Pennsylvania, with its headquarters in Denver, Pennsylvania.

R.M. Palmer Company

The chocolate factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania where the deadly 2023 explosion took place.

Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission

The state regulatory agency seeking $2.6 million in civil penalties against UGI Utilities for alleged safety violations.

Patricia Borges

A woman who was pulled alive from the rubble of the chocolate factory, suffering a broken collarbone and heels after falling into a vat of liquid chocolate.

National Transportation Safety Board

The federal agency that investigated the 2023 chocolate factory explosion and found the plant lacked proper natural gas emergency procedures.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.