“There's nothing to describe. It doesn't exist anymore,” the sheriff added. According to earlier reports in the American media, four to five people were injured and transported to hospitals.
Davis called the explosion one of the worst accidents he had ever witnessed. He added that “many people” died, but did not give a specific number.
According to local services, rescuers were initially unable to reach the scene of the incident due to ongoing detonations. In the afternoon, the situation was considered under control.
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The explosion occurred near Bucksnort, nearly 60 miles southwest of Nashville. The Accurate Energetic Systems facility produced and tested military explosives, including plastic C4, land mines, and received numerous contracts from the United States Army and Navy.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and communities affected by the disaster,” says the company's statement, quoted by the AP agency. She also expressed “gratitude to all rescuers who continue to work tirelessly in difficult conditions.”
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee said he was monitoring the situation. He called on “Tennesseans to join us in praying for the families affected by this tragic event.”
State legislator Jody Barrett expressed concern about the potential economic impacts of the plant, which is a large local employer.
Accurate Energetic Systems has had security issues in the past
—We live probably almost 15 miles away as the crow flies and we absolutely heard the explosion in the house. “It sounded like something was coming through the roof of our house,” he explained.
AP pointed out that the local community had already experienced similar tragedies. In 2014, an explosion at a nearby munitions plant killed one person and injured at least three. Moreover, Accurate Energetic Systems has had safety issues in the past: In 2019, the company was cited by the Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for multiple violations related to exposure to hazardous chemicals, radiation and other workplace hazards.
The accident caused deep concern throughout the region – not only because of the human loss, but also because of the plant's key role in the local economy. The investigation is ongoing with support from federal agencies including the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Department of Homeland Security.
