Sixteen dead after blast at US explosives factory

A catastrophic explosion at an explosives manufacturing facility in Bucksnort, Tennessee, has resulted in the deaths of 16 individuals, authorities confirmed on Saturday. The incident, which occurred on Friday at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant, initially led to fears that 18 people had perished. However, two individuals previously thought to be among the victims were later located and confirmed safe. The blast, described as a ‘tragic accident’ by the company, obliterated an entire building on the expansive campus, caused widespread structural vibrations, and scattered debris across the area. Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis noted that the vehicle and personal belongings of the two missing individuals were found at the scene, initially leading to the assumption of their demise. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) official Brice McCracken stated that the cause of the explosion remains undetermined, with investigations ongoing. Sheriff Davis emphasized that foul play has not been ruled out, and the process of examining the site is being conducted meticulously, with bomb technicians deployed as necessary. DNA testing will be utilized to identify the remains of the victims.