Washington: Sixteen people died in a massive explosion at a Tennessee explosives factory, officials confirmed Saturday.
The explosion occurred Friday at the Accurate Energetic Systems facility in the city of Buxnort.
The company manufactures explosives for military and demolition applications.
The explosion completely destroyed a building within the plant’s extensive complex.
The force of the explosion shook nearby houses for miles around.
After the powerful explosion, debris scattered far and wide across the area.
Authorities initially reported eighteen people missing and were presumed dead.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis later confirmed that the two men had been located safely.
His vehicle and personal belongings found at the scene had created initial confusion.
In its official statement, Accurate Energetic Systems called the incident a tragic accident.
Federal investigator Bryce McCracken said officials were unsure of the cause of the explosion.
Officials from the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco and Explosives confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff Davis stressed that investigators still could not rule out foul play as a possible factor.
He acknowledged that finding the cause may require months of detailed investigation.
Officials are handling the blast site with caution due to safety concerns.
Bomb technicians respond whenever potential threats are identified during recovery operations.
DNA testing will be necessary to identify remains recovered from the destroyed facility. – AFP
