The Berks County Coroner’s Office has officially released the final manner and causes of death for the seven victims of the tragic explosion and building collapse that occurred on March 24, 2023, at the R.M. Palmer Co. building in West Reading.
The manner of death for all victims has been officially ruled as accidental. The names and final cause of death of the victims are as follows:
Amy S. Sandoe, 49, of Ephrata, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
Domingo Cruz, 60, of Reading, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
Xiorky D. Nunez, 30, of Reading, PA, Cause of death: Thermal Burns.
Susan H. Halvonik, 63, of Upper Providence Township, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
Michael D. Breedy, 62, of Marion Township, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
Diana M. Cedeno, 44, of Reading, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
Judith Lopez-Moran, 55, of Reading, PA, Cause of death: Blast injuries.
The extensive forensic post-mortem examinations were conducted by Forensic Pathologist Dr. Neil A. Hoffman, MD. These examinations were a crucial step in determining the causes of death and providing closure to the families affected by this devastating incident.
“We thank the numerous agencies and organizations involved with the rescue, recovery, investigation, and support. We continue to help families in Berks County deal with loss of loved ones, including those most affected by this tragedy” stated the Berks County Coroner’s Office.
