Microbiologist named as victim of Wednesday's explosion at Treforest Industrial Estate

Family have paid tribute to the 40-year-old whose body was found yesterday

Danielle Evans
Author: Gavin RutterPublished 15th Dec 2023
Last updated 15th Dec 2023

A woman whose body was found at the site of a fire and explosion at Treforest Industrial Estate has been named.

The family of 40 year old year old microbiologist Danielle Evans have described her as 'a whirlwind of a woman' whose death leaves 'a gaping hole' in their hearts.

Police have issued a statement from Daniell's family: “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!

“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!

“We would like to give a big heartfelt Thank You to all of the Emergency Services who attended and who are involved with the incident, your efforts throughout have been professional and heroic. We thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts.”

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 enquiries 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.”

The force previously confirmed that specially trained officers were supporting the family of the person who had died in the incident.

Anyone with footage is asked to use the link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/62SWP23B79-PO1.

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