Eighteen people are missing after a blast at a military explosives manufacturing facility in Tennessee on Friday. Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis stated that one person initially believed to be onsite had been located at home, but the search continues for others. Four to five individuals were hospitalized due to injuries sustained in the explosion, which has left the factory in ruins.
Sheriff Davis described the scene: “There’s nothing to describe; it’s gone,” referring to the extensive devastation at the plant, committed to the production and storage of explosives, located about 56 miles southwest of Nashville. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
Aerial footage from the site reveals charred debris and smoldering vehicles, with local reports indicating that the blast was powerful enough to be felt miles away. Many of the missing were reportedly at work when the explosion occurred, as the facility was operational at the time.
In a statement, Sheriff Davis expressed the gravity of the situation, noting the emotional toll it takes on the community: “We’re missing 19 souls.” During the latest briefing, he confirmed that 19 people remain unaccounted for and described the explosion’s significant impact, which sent debris flying across a half square mile.
Governor Bill Lee referred to the incident as “tragic” and the response involves both state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The investigation is underway, with authorities working carefully to determine the circumstances of the explosion while ensuring the scene remains secure.
The facility, owned by Accurate Energetic Systems, employed around 75 workers but has now ceased operations. This incident echoes past events, as a similar explosion occurred at the same site in 2014, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with munitions manufacturing and proper safety regulations in place.
Community support is critical in these challenging times as residents begin to comprehend the loss and those affected navigate potential heart-wrenching outcomes.
Sheriff Davis described the scene: “There’s nothing to describe; it’s gone,” referring to the extensive devastation at the plant, committed to the production and storage of explosives, located about 56 miles southwest of Nashville. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
Aerial footage from the site reveals charred debris and smoldering vehicles, with local reports indicating that the blast was powerful enough to be felt miles away. Many of the missing were reportedly at work when the explosion occurred, as the facility was operational at the time.
In a statement, Sheriff Davis expressed the gravity of the situation, noting the emotional toll it takes on the community: “We’re missing 19 souls.” During the latest briefing, he confirmed that 19 people remain unaccounted for and described the explosion’s significant impact, which sent debris flying across a half square mile.
Governor Bill Lee referred to the incident as “tragic” and the response involves both state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The investigation is underway, with authorities working carefully to determine the circumstances of the explosion while ensuring the scene remains secure.
The facility, owned by Accurate Energetic Systems, employed around 75 workers but has now ceased operations. This incident echoes past events, as a similar explosion occurred at the same site in 2014, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with munitions manufacturing and proper safety regulations in place.
Community support is critical in these challenging times as residents begin to comprehend the loss and those affected navigate potential heart-wrenching outcomes.
