A rural explosion that destroyed an explosives factory and was felt for miles left behind charred ruins, mangled structures and burnt-out vehicles at the site of Accurate Energetic Systems, a company that supplies and researches explosives for the US military, the article says.
The cause of the explosion is not yet known; investigators are examining the destroyed area in search of evidence, the media notes.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said at a news conference, pausing to swallow tears before asking for prayers for the victims' families, that there was a “range of emotions here” and officers “didn't find anyone alive.”
During a prayer meeting at Hurricane Chapel Church in McEwan Township, Pastor Tim Ferris noted that many in attendance knew the victims and their families. According to the pastor, some families were shocked immediately after the tragedy, but the next day the pain became more noticeable.
Pamela Jane Brown, who came to pray for friends missing after the explosion and their families, said a family acquaintance was driving past the plant at the time of the explosion and was injured but was recovering at home.
Davis noted that about 300 rescuers are working “slowly and methodically” as damaged, unstable explosive materials remain at the site. For safety, an ambulance and a helicopter were brought in for the possible evacuation of rescuers, the media clarifies.
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) spokesman Guy McCormick said bomb technicians are making the area safe for investigators to work in as conditions at the scene are constantly changing due to the heat and pressure after an explosion.
The sheriff noted that it would take days, weeks or even months before the possibility of sabotage was finally ruled out.
At a press conference on Oct. 11, officials announced that local schools would provide psychologists for bereaved children.
At the moment, it is unknown how many workers were at the plant at the time of the explosion, journalists write.
According to their information, the company has numerous military contracts with the US Army and Navy, including the supply of explosives, mines and C4 charges.
Residents in the town of Lobelville, a 20-minute drive away, said the explosion shook their homes, and the sound was recorded by home surveillance cameras.
Local resident Gentry Stover said that at first he thought the house had collapsed on him, but after half a minute he realized it was an explosion at the Accurate plant.
