An explosion at an explosives disposal facility in rural Tennessee has left dozens dead or missing, and investigators are now working to determine the cause of one of the state’s most devastating industrial accidents in recent years.
The explosion occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. local time on October 10, 2025, at the Accurate Energetic Systems complex in Hickman County, about 90 miles west of Nashville. The facility, which handles military and commercial explosives and ammunition, was largely destroyed in the explosion.
Residents in the surrounding area reported feeling the ground shaking, hearing a powerful bang, and seeing smoke and flames from miles away. Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, but efforts were initially delayed due to the risk of further explosions due to the unstable material.
Employee casualties and missing persons
Local and federal authorities have confirmed several deaths, but the exact number has not yet been determined. Initial reports suggested up to 19 employees were missing, but that number was later revised to still 18 after one employee was found safe elsewhere.
Several other people were injured and taken to local hospitals. The extent of the destruction has complicated recovery efforts, and authorities have warned that identifying victims could take a significant amount of time.
Family support centers have been set up to provide assistance to relatives of the victims, and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) continues to coordinate search and recovery efforts.
Facility and its history
Accurate Energetic Systems is a private company specializing in the production and handling of explosives used in the defense, aerospace, and demolition industries. The facility spans more than 1,000 acres and includes multiple processing buildings, testing areas, and laboratories.
The company has operated in the region for decades, and the plant has previously experienced serious accidents. In 2014, a small explosion occurred at a related facility, killing one employee and injuring three others. Since then, state safety inspectors have monitored the facility under strict regulations due to the hazardous nature of its operations.
Under investigation
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of Thursday’s explosion. The site remains cordoned off due to the risk of explosive residue. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area while emergency work continued.
Accurate Energetic Systems said in a social media post that its “thoughts and prayers” are with the families and communities affected.
Community impact
The explosion devastated the small Hickman County community where many of the plant’s employees have lived for years. Local authorities described the incident as “the most serious industrial tragedy” the region had faced in decades.
Federal assistance is being provided to assist with the recovery and investigation.
As rescue teams continue to work and families across Tennessee wait for confirmation of the safety of their loved ones, questions remain as to how a highly regulated facility could suffer such a catastrophic failure.
