Eighteen individuals are currently unaccounted for following a significant explosion at a military explosives manufacturing facility in Bucksnort, Tennessee, which occurred on Friday. According to Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis, one person initially thought to be missing has been located. Reports indicate that four or five people sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital as a result of the explosion that severely damaged the factory.
The plant, operated by Accurate Energetic Systems, specializes in the development and storage of military-grade explosives. The cause of the explosion has not yet been determined. Aerial footage of the site reveals substantial destruction, including burnt debris and damaged vehicles, with little of the facility remaining intact. Sheriff Davis noted that secondary explosions complicate the ongoing response efforts, requiring first responders to maintain a safe distance from the site.
During a media briefing, Sheriff Davis confirmed that 19 individuals remain unaccounted for and emphasized that the explosion occurred in a large building, with debris scattered over a half square mile. Residents in nearby Waverly, approximately 15.5 miles away, felt and heard the explosion.
The FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have secured the scene and deemed it stable. Local, state, and federal agencies are collaborating on the investigation. Sheriff Davis mentioned that the investigation would be thorough, characterizing it as “slow and methodical.”
The facility, situated on approximately 1300 acres, previously produced C-4, TNT, and other explosives. The company reportedly employed around 75 people and has ceased operations following the incident. The enormity of the explosion raised questions about safety and oversight in the explosives manufacturing industry, prompting discussions on regulatory measures in similar facilities.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c89d4zw8704o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss