Authorities Revise Toll As Search & Recovery Efforts Intensify At Accurate Energetic Systems Facility

Saturday, October 11, 2025, 6:30 A.M. ET. 4 Minute Read, By Jennifer Hodges: Englebrook Independent News,

BUCKSNORT, TN.- A devastating explosion tore through the Accurate Energetic Systems explosives facility early Friday morning, killing several workers and leaving 18 people still missing and feared dead, according to local and state authorities.

     The blast, which occurred around 7:45 a.m. local time near the Hickman–Humphreys County line in the Bucksnort and McEwen area, destroyed at least one central building, scattered debris for hundreds of yards, and was felt for miles across rural western Tennessee.

     Initially, 19 workers were reported missing, but officials later confirmed that one individual was located safe at home, revising the total to 18 unaccounted-for employees.

     “We’re still praying for miracles, but at this stage, we’re preparing for the worst,” said Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis during an afternoon press briefing. “The site is gone. We’re talking about total devastation.” 

At least four to five individuals were transported to local hospitals with injuries, though the precise number of fatalities has not yet been released.

Dangerous Conditions Delay Search Efforts;

     Authorities described the situation as extremely volatile, with responders initially unable to enter the facility due to secondary explosions and unstable materials.

     More than 300 emergency personnel from multiple counties, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, and federal partners worked throughout the day to secure the site. By late afternoon, crews had contained lingering fires and began the complex process of search and recovery.

     The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency activated its Level 4 State Emergency Operations Center, coordinating state and federal support, and set up a family assistance center to aid relatives of the missing.

     “Every person out there today is working in incredibly hazardous conditions,” said TEMA spokesperson Jillian Hawkins. “Our first concern is for safety, both for responders and for those we’re still trying to bring home.”

     Nearby State Route 230 and several access roads remain closed, and officials have urged the public to stay clear of the area.

Federal and State Investigations Underway;

     The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation have joined local law enforcement and fire marshals to determine what triggered the explosion. Investigators are expected to spend days or even weeks collecting evidence once the site is declared safe.

     No cause has been identified, but authorities are examining potential ignition sources, handling errors, or containment failures involving high-grade explosives.

     Sheriff Davis said investigators are focusing on the plant’s processing area, where explosive materials such as C-4 and similar compounds were reportedly handled at the time of the blast.

Facility History and Background;

     Founded in 1980, Accurate Energetic Systems occupies a 1,300-acre campus dedicated to the production and processing of military and industrial explosives. The company holds several U.S. Department of Defense contracts and manufactures energetic materials used in ammunition, demolition, and aerospace applications.

     While the facility has generally maintained a clean safety record, a 2014 explosion at the same site killed one worker and injured several others. That earlier blast prompted renewed safety oversight from both state and federal regulators.

A Community Shaken;

The explosion rattled homes as far as 10 miles away. Residents described hearing a deep boom followed by a shockwave that shattered windows and set off car alarms.

     “I thought a plane had hit,” said local resident Karen Shelton, who lives six miles from the site. “The whole ground shook, my front door nearly came off the hinges.”

     Hickman County Mayor Jim Bates called the disaster “a nightmare for our community.”

     “This company is one of our area’s largest employers,” Bates said. “Everyone here knows someone who works there. We’re hurting together tonight.”

     Governor Bill Lee confirmed that state resources, including specialized hazardous materials teams, have been deployed to assist local responders. “Maria and I are praying for every family waiting for word,” Lee said in a statement. “Tennessee stands with the people of Humphreys and Hickman counties.”

Next Steps and Ongoing Efforts;

• Search and recovery operations will continue into the weekend, with teams prioritizing the recovery of missing personnel.
• Forensic and structural assessments are expected once the site is secure, including chemical residue analysis and examination of facility records.
• Federal workplace safety agencies will review the company’s operational compliance and safety standards.
• Community and mental health services are being mobilized for affected families and first responders.

     Authorities have not released the identities of the victims pending family notifications. Officials say it may take several days before all remains can be located and identified due to the level of destruction.

Editor’s Note:
This report incorporates verified information from The Associated Press, Reuters, ABC News, The Guardian, and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. Further updates will be provided as recovery and investigative efforts continue.