Updated: A BASF SE worker has died following an explosion and fire at the German chemical giant's facility in Ludwigshafen, Germany.
Initial reports had quoted the German chemicals giant as saying the fire followed an explosion, the cause of which had not been determined, which took place at a riverside harbor.
It then confirmed that there was an explosion at at the North Harbor during work on a pipeline, which resulted in fires. Several people were injured, and some were reported missing.
In the latest update, BASF confirmed an employee had died.
"According to the latest information we have, one person died as a result of today's fire in the North Harbor at BASF in Ludwigshafen," the group said.
Six people had suffered serious injuries, several others received light injuries, it added. The injured were being treated in local hospitals.
Six other people were still missing.
“We are deeply saddened that one employee has died and several have been injured. Our deepest sympathy lies with the affected people and their families,” said Uwe Liebelt, BASF site manager Ludwigshafen.
Logistics employees and truck drivers were evacuated at Gate 15 and brought to a safe location in the Ebert Hall, the firm said.
"Gate 15 is closed. Gate 3 is currently not manned and therefore closed to vehicular traffic. The turnstiles are available as well as all other gates. The normal shift change will happen as planned.
"There is visible smoke. The surrounding towns are recommending to residents in the affected areas of Ludwigshafen and Mannheim, until further notice, to stay indoors and close doors and windows," it added.
BASF and the City of Ludwigshafen held a press conference at 4 p.m. local time, and the chemicals firm said more information would follow.
Photos on social media showed a thick plume of smoke rising from the fire site.