HOUSTON, TX — As many as three people are feared dead after an explosion at a Houston industrial site Friday morning, officials said.

Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said at a press conference that at least two deaths had been confirmed. Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said there were as many as three possible fatalities.

The explosion happened in the 4500 block of Gessner Road in the northwest part of the city. The explosion has caused significant damage to several homes in the area, officials said. A strip mall adjacent to the explosion site has also been damaged.

The explosion was at the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing Company, which makes valves and provides thermal-spray coatings for equipment in various industries, authorities said.

Several people told TV station KHOU that the explosion was so loud, they thought a bomb had gone off or that a vehicle had crashed into their homes.

A temporary shelter has been opened at a church nearby on 4703 Shadowdale Drive for those who have been displaced. Turner said housing department representatives are being sent to the area to assist those in need of shelter.

Crews are canvassing the area for injuries and damage. Acevedo asked residents who live nearby to search their homes and neighborhoods for any debris — including body parts — and to contact police if they find anything that could aid in the investigation.

So far, officials said there are no significant problems with air quality in the area but the situation is being monitored. Officials said they would keep the public updated.

Acevedo said a criminal investigation is underway, part of the department’s procedures. The chief assured members of the public that officers have no reason to believe or have any evidence that terrorism or an intentional act was involved.

This story will be updated as more information is learned.

Reporting and writing from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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