A massive explosion rocked an explosives plant in rural Tennessee on Friday, leaving behind a scene of destruction with twisted metal and burnt-out car shells. At least 18 people are missing and feared dead in the incident, as confirmed by authorities.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis expressed the devastation, saying that the site at Accurate Energetic Systems, which specializes in supplying and researching explosives for the military, was completely obliterated. He described it as one of the most horrific scenes he has witnessed, especially heartbreaking as he personally knew three families affected by the tragedy.
While multiple fatalities have been reported, the exact number remains undisclosed by Davis. Initially, 19 individuals were reported missing, but one person believed to be on-site was later found safe at home by Friday night.
The explosion occurred around 7:45 a.m. local time, causing significant damage to the company’s hilltop location, as shown in aerial footage with smoke billowing from the area. Debris was scattered over a wide area, with reports of people feeling the blast more than 24 kilometers away.
Accurate Energetic Systems, situated in Bucksnort, Tennessee, processes explosives and ammunition across an eight-building complex nestled in wooded hills. The exact number of employees present during the explosion remains unknown.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the explosion, as emergency crews initially faced challenges entering the plant due to continued detonations. By Friday afternoon, the situation was deemed under control, with no further risk of explosions reported.
The company extended condolences to the affected families and community, acknowledging the efforts of first responders in the aftermath of the tragic event. Accurate Energetic Systems has a history of securing military contracts to supply various munitions and explosives, including bulk explosives, landmines, and breaching charges like C-4.
Local residents in Lobelville reported feeling the impact of the blast, with some capturing the explosive sound on home cameras. The incident shocked nearby communities, prompting Tennessee Governor Bill Lee to request prayers for those impacted.
State Rep. Jody Barrett expressed concern over the potential economic repercussions, given the plant’s significance as a major employer in the area. A vigil was held in a nearby park where attendees prayed, sang hymns, and lit candles in remembrance of the missing individuals and their families.
The U.S. has a history of workplace tragedies, and industrial safety measures have been a focal point following past incidents. Accurate Energetic Systems had faced fines in 2019 for violations related to worker safety protocols, according to citations from the U.S. Department of Labor.
In 2014, another explosion at an ammunition facility in the same community resulted in casualties, underscoring the dangers associated with such industrial operations.