Officials in Tennessee have confirmed that the explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) in Hickman County resulted in no survivors. According to FOX17, Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis announced during a press conference that 16 people are presumed dead following the Friday last week incident.
Sheriff Davis said more than 300 personnel took part in search efforts across the property. The number of missing individuals was initially reported as 18 but was later revised to 16 after two people believed to be on-site were confirmed safe. NewsChannel5 reported that the State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville remains at Level 4 – Elevated, supporting the ongoing multi-agency response.
Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, and Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, are leading the investigation into the cause. A rapid DNA team is assisting in identifying the victims, and controlled detonations are being conducted to safely remove remaining unstable materials, with authorities issuing public advisories through social media.
A Family Assistance Center has been set up to support affected families, and mental health assistance is available by calling or texting 988. Sheriff Davis told The Tennessean that families of the deceased have been notified, and the victims’ names and ages will be released soon.
Residents have been advised to avoid the area as response operations continue. The next official update is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT on Sunday.
