Tennessee (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A massive explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems, a military explosives manufacturing facility in Tennessee, has left multiple people dead and 19 others missing, officials confirmed. The blast caused extensive destruction and triggered ongoing emergency and investigation efforts.
Devastating explosion at military explosives plant
According to Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis, a “devastating blast” occurred around 7:45 a.m. local time on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Accurate Energetic Systems, located near Bucksnort, Tennessee, roughly 60 miles southwest of Nashville. The powerful explosion completely destroyed one of the eight buildings on the plant’s campus and was felt miles away by local residents.
Casualties and missing persons
Sheriff Davis confirmed multiple fatalities but withheld an exact death toll, stating the focus remained on finding 19 people still unaccounted for. Early reports mentioned that four to five injured individuals were hospitalised. The sheriff described the scene as one of the most harrowing in his career, remarking, “There’s nothing to describe. It’s gone.”.
Emergency response and site conditions
Emergency crews were deployed swiftly but faced challenges due to smaller detonations continuing after the initial blast, requiring them to maintain a safe distance. Federal agencies including the FBI and ATF are on-site supporting the investigation. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area to facilitate safe conducting of rescue operations.
Community impact and witness accounts
Residents from nearby towns described the explosion as extraordinarily violent, shaking houses and windows. Gentry Stover, a neighbour, told The Associated Press, “I thought the house had collapsed around me.” Mayor Brad Rachford of McEwen noted the rural community’s close ties to the facility, with many locals employed there, exacerbating the tragedy’s impact.
Accurate Energetic Systems overview
The company specialises in producing military-grade explosives for the U.S. Department of Defense and industrial markets. Its sprawling campus includes multiple buildings used for manufacturing and testing explosives. The facility’s Facebook page highlights its commitment to safety, although the cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
Ongoing investigation and potential causes
The cause of the blast has not yet been determined. Sheriff Davis warned that the investigation would take multiple days and called the incident a “very big investigation.” Accurate Energetic Systems is cooperating fully with all inquiries.
Officials’ statements and public safety advisories
Sheriff Chris Davis expressed sympathy for affected families and emphasised the seriousness of the situation. Authorities continue searching for the missing, and the community has been asked to respect emergency personnel and avoid the site. Deputy emergency management officials also called for prayers and patience during the ongoing response.
Summary and ongoing developments
The explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems has resulted in a tragic loss of life and continues to leave many unaccounted for. Emergency responders and federal investigators are actively working on-site to manage safety risks, assess damages, and investigate the causes. Community members remain in shock as officials provide updates.
