The Daily Star Ireland
Authorities in Tennessee are investigating a devastating explosion that tore through a U.S. military explosives facility on Friday, leaving at least 19 people missing and causing multiple fatalities. The blast occurred at Accurate Energetic Systems, an explosives manufacturer located in the Bucksnort area of Hickman County, roughly 70 miles southwest of Nashville.
A Scene of Widespread Destruction
Aerial footage aired by U.S. media showed charred wreckage and twisted debris scattered across the site, with vehicles completely destroyed and smoke rising from what was once the main facility. Emergency crews, firefighters, and law enforcement agencies flooded the area as officials urged residents to avoid the vicinity due to potential ongoing hazards.
Speaking at a press conference, Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis confirmed that 19 people remain unaccounted for following the explosion. “At this time, we have been able to confirm that we do have 19 souls that we’re looking for,” Davis said.
He also confirmed that there were fatalities but declined to give an exact figure. “We are trying to be mindful of families and that situation,” he said, adding that authorities would begin notifying next of kin before releasing further details. “We do have some that are deceased,” he said somberly.
Danger of Further Explosions
Sheriff Davis stated that while emergency responders had secured the site, smaller secondary explosions remained a concern due to the nature of the materials involved. “We’re being extremely cautious,” he said, emphasizing that investigators were still assessing the full extent of the damage.
In a post on Facebook, the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the incident, writing: “There has been an explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems in the Bucksnort area. Emergency services are currently on the scene working to address the situation.”
Company and Community Impact
The Hickman County mayor’s office said it could not immediately confirm the total number of fatalities or the cause of the blast. Investigators from local and federal agencies are expected to remain at the scene for several days as they work to determine what triggered the explosion.
Accurate Energetic Systems, founded in 1980, produces high-explosive compounds and specialty products for the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial clients. According to the company’s website, it has long supplied explosives for both military operations and infrastructure projects.
The company has not yet issued an official statement in response to the tragedy.
Community in Shock
Residents in nearby towns reported feeling the blast from miles away. The explosion rattled homes and businesses, leaving many in the community reeling. “It was like an earthquake,” one resident told local media. “The ground shook, and we saw smoke rising in the distance.”
As recovery operations continue, officials say their priority remains searching for survivors, supporting the families of the missing, and ensuring that the site is safe for investigators to enter fully.
