A powerful explosion at a military explosives manufacturing facility in Tennessee on Friday has resulted in 18 people missing. Sheriff Chris Davis of Humphreys County reported that while one individual initially thought to be on-site was located safe at home, four to five others were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The blast was so immense that it flattened the entire factory, with Sheriff Davis stating, “There’s nothing to describe, it’s gone.” The facility, located in Bucksnort, Tennessee, approximately 56 miles southwest of Nashville, is known for its specialization in the development, manufacturing, handling, and storage of explosives. The cause of the explosion is currently under investigation.
Aerial footage reveals a scene of utter devastation, with charred debris, smoldering vehicles, and very little remaining of the Accurate Energetic Systems plant. Sheriff Davis, visibly emotional, did not provide exact casualty figures but noted that the plant was operational when the explosion occurred, and subsequent secondary blasts necessitated that first responders maintain a safe distance. He expressed the profound loss, stating, “We’re missing 19 souls.” Further updates confirmed that 19 individuals remain unaccounted for following the incident, which occurred in a large building and scattered debris over a half-mile radius.
The explosion was felt by residents in Waverly, a town approximately 15.5 miles northwest of the site. When questioned about the potential cause, accidental or intentional, Sheriff Davis emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, stating, “We have to make the worst assumption in order to find the truth.” Tennessee Governor Bill Lee acknowledged the “tragic incident” and confirmed that state and local authorities, along with federal agencies, are collaborating on the response.
TriStar Health reported that two walk-in patients treated for minor injuries have been released, with a third still receiving care. Local media also indicated that patients were being treated at other area hospitals, and the impact of the explosion was felt by residents up to 20 miles away.
The factory, situated on approximately 1,300 acres, manufactured high-grade military and commercial explosives, including C-4 and TNT. Accurate Energetic Systems has ceased operations following the event. The company is believed to have employed around 75 people. The investigation is expected to be a “slow and methodical” process, with multiple teams working to determine the cause. This incident follows a similar, though less severe, blast at the same location in 2014, which resulted in one fatality and three injuries.