WestRock said this afternoon four employees were injured today at the Roanoke Rapids mill and are currently receiving treatment.

The initial number of injuries reported by the Roanoke Rapids Fire Department had been three.

WestRock Corporate Communications Manager Robby Johnson said the employees were injured following a steam release from a valve. “The company is investigating the cause of the incident and cooperating with all proper authorities,” Johnson said in reply to an email inquiry.

The initial call came in shortly before 1:30 p.m. as an explosion.

However, when firefighters, EMS and rescue squad members arrived the fire department said firefighters assisted with the treatment of injured patients for apparent steam burns.

Roanoke Rapids police were at the scene for traffic control and support, Chief Bobby Martin said.

In addition to the fire and police departments, Roanoke Valley Rescue Squad and Halifax EMS responded to the call.