An early-morning explosion at a Tennessee explosives manufacturing plant left multiple people dead and at least 19 others missing on Friday, prompting a large-scale emergency response from federal and state authorities.
The blast occurred around 7:48 a.m. local time at Accurate Energetic Systems, a defense contractor based near Bucksnort in Hickman County, close to the Humphreys County line, roughly 50 miles west of Nashville. The company manufactures high-grade explosives and energetic devices used in military, aerospace, demolition, and mining applications, with clients including the Department of Defense and Homeland Security.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis confirmed during a news conference that “multiple” fatalities had been recorded and several others remained unaccounted for.
“We can confirm that we do have some that are deceased,” Davis said. “This is not going to be something that we’re going to clean up and leave. We’re probably going to be here for a few days.”
Local emergency management officials told reporters that at least 19 employees were missing following the explosion. Between four and five individuals were transported to area hospitals with injuries, according to ABC News.
Massive Response, Shaken Community
Authorities from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation are on site. Investigators said it was too early to determine what caused the explosion, which destroyed one of the plant’s buildings.
Nearby residents reported their homes shaking and debris scattering miles away.
“I thought the house had collapsed with me inside of it,” said Gentry Stover, a resident of nearby Lobelville, to The Associated Press. “I live very close to Accurate, and I realized about 30 seconds after I woke up that it had to have been that.”
State Rep. Jody Barrett (R–Dickson) said the blast was heard more than 15 miles away and expressed concern about the potential economic impact on the region, noting that Accurate Energetic Systems is a major local employer.
“We absolutely heard it at the house,” Barrett said. “It sounded like something going through the roof.”
Ongoing Investigation
Officials are urging the public to avoid the area as first responders continue recovery and containment efforts. Sheriff Davis said investigators expect a multi-day operation given the hazardous nature of the site.
Founded in 1994, Accurate Energetic Systems describes itself as a firm “dedicated to the development, manufacture, handling, and storage of high-quality energetic products utilized in both defense and commercial markets.”
The Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office, Hickman County Sheriff’s Office, and Tennessee Emergency Management Agency are coordinating with federal partners as the investigation unfolds.
This is a developing story. The Dallas Express will continue to monitor updates from local and federal authorities.