An explosion at a Pacific metal recycling plant killed a 62-year-old man Monday, the Valley Regional Fire Authority reported.

The man died when a bus he was taking apart exploded at Metals Express, 1374 Thornton Ave. SW.

The man has been identified as Fred Schoenbachler of Orting.

According to witnesses, the man was on top of the bus when it exploded about 11:30 a.m., throwing him about 25 feet into the air, VRFA spokeswoman Kimberly Terhune said.

No flames resulted from the explosion. Investigators are trying to determine what caused the explosion. The Pacific Police Department and L & I are conducting the investigation.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

There were no other injuries.

East Pierce Fire and Rescue also was dispatched and arrived prior to VRFA units to work the scene.