October 10, (THEWILL) — An explosion at the Accurate Energetic Systems explosives manufacturing plant in McEwen, Tennessee, United States, has left several people dead and many others missing.
Humphreys County Sheriff, Chris Davis, confirmed the fatalities, saying rescue teams were still searching for missing workers at the military munitions facility.
“We do have several people at this time unaccounted for. We also have some that are deceased,” Davis said.
The blast, which occurred just before 8:00 a.m. local time on Friday, completely leveled one of the plant’s buildings.
Residents in nearby towns, including Lobelville, reported hearing a powerful boom that shook homes and shattered windows.
Emergency response efforts were initially slowed by smaller secondary explosions at the site, forcing crews to wait until it was safe to begin rescue operations.
Officials said the cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, adding that an investigation is underway.
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency confirmed that there were injuries but did not provide specific figures.
It added that local, state, and federal emergency teams were on the ground to assist with rescue and recovery efforts.
Accurate Energetic Systems operates a large facility that produces and tests explosives for the military, aerospace, oil, and demolition industries. The plant, located about 60 miles southwest of Nashville, is one of the area’s largest employers.
Local officials described the incident as a devastating tragedy. McEwen Mayor Brad Rachford said, “This is a dark day for our community. Our hearts go out to the families affected.”
Authorities have urged residents to avoid the area as recovery and investigation operations continue.
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