Injuries at distillery explosion in Clarke's Beach

Some employeeswere injured with one of them rushed to hospital in an explosion Friday at theNewfoundland Distillery Company in Clarke's Beach.

"One of our employees sustained burns and smoke inhalation and has been transferred to the Health Sciences Centre in St John's where he is in a stable condition. Another is being held for observation in Carbonear General Hospital overnight," the company said in a media release, late Friday afternoon.

"We will keep everyone up to date as we move forward. The most important thing is the full recovery of our staff."

RCMPand crews from both the Bay Roberts Fire Department and the Bay de Grave Fire Department responded to the explosion.

The company produces gin, rum and other spirits.

"There is a full investigation into the causes of the incident. Our stills and a portion of the building were damaged. While our tasting room and shop were not affected, they will be closed until further notice," the company said.

Both parts of the Conception Bay Highway and Main Street in Clarke's Beach have been closed because of the explosion.

"Motorists are asked to continue to avoid the area, as traffic congestion is significant," RCMPsaid in a statement.

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