A 50-year-old Middletown man was killed Wednesday morning in an explosion at ASAP Scrap Recycling on Route 208 in Walden.

Police say it happened around 10:40 a.m., when emergency crews were called to the scrapyard for a report of an explosion with injuries. Responders found the man dead at the scene.

Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name.

Investigators say the man was an employee and was using a cutting torch when the explosion occurred. It’s not yet clear what caused the blast, and the investigation is ongoing.

The Town of Montgomery Police Department is leading the investigation, with assistance from the Walden Fire Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and New York State Police.

The owner of the company, Edward Alicea, issued a statement to News 12, saying they are cooperating with authorities during the investigation.

“We are heartbroken to share that we lost one of our team members today in a tragic accident at our facility. Our deepest condolences go out to their family, friends, and coworkers during this difficult time,” said Alicea.