Waukegan plant explosion: 1 death, 2 workers missing today after the explosion occurred in Illinois

Waukegan, Illinois – An explosion in an Illinois silicone factory Friday killed one worker and injured four others, authorities said. Two more are missing and officials said it was unlikely they survived, reported Chicago CBS.

City of Waukegan emergency teams have suspended the search for missing employees due to the presence of hazardous materials and the structural integrity of the building. Waukegan is located about 40 miles north of Chicago.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of everyone involved in this horrible incident," said Waukegan Fire Marshal Steven Lenzi. "Our staff worked tirelessly all night to control this scene with the help of many neighboring agencies."

The cause of the explosion was not immediately understood. At least five other buildings in the area had been damaged. Officials estimated that the damage would cost more than $ 1,000,000.

AB Specialty Silicones, the owner of the plant, manufactures and distributes various grades of silicone products, reported CBS Chicago.

Lake County Sheriff's Office tweeted On Friday, they were aware of a "very strong explosion" and an "earthquake" felt near the border between Gurnee and Waukegan. They urged people to stay out of the area to let the first responders work.