Sixteen presumed dead after explosion at Tennessee explosives plant
2 Min Read
Sixteen people are presumed dead after an explosion at a Tennessee plant producing shaped charges. Authorities are investigating the cause of the deadly blast.
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Scene from the explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems factory in Bucksnort, Tennessee on October 10,2025. (Social media)
Sixteen people are presumed dead following a devastating explosion at a manufacturing facility in Tennessee, authorities said on Saturday. The blast occurred Friday at the Accurate Energy Systems plant in Humphreys County, which is known for producing explosives, including shaped charges.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis confirmed the presumed fatalities during a press conference Saturday evening.
“We have contacted all 16 families that we feel was a part of this tragedy,” Davis said.
When asked if the 16 could be presumed dead, the sheriff replied: “Yes.”
Major explosion hit the Accurate Energetic Systems factory in Bucksnort, Tennessee.
— Clash Report (@clashreport) October 10, 2025
The blast destroyed a building, was felt up to 20 miles away, and left 19 workers missing.
Several deaths and injuries have been confirmed.
AES makes explosives for military and industrial… pic.twitter.com/D2PzZBJ4Ru
19 initially reported missing after blast
On Friday, Davis had reported several confirmed deaths and 19 individuals missing following the explosion. Emergency services were dispatched immediately, but the severity of the blast and ensuing fire made rescue and recovery efforts extremely difficult.
The plant, which produces shaped charges used in both commercial and military applications, was reportedly operating at full capacity at the time of the incident. Some types of shaped charges produced at the facility have reportedly been observed in Ukrainian Armed Forces weapon systems, though there is no current indication of a link between the plant’s operations and the blast.
Investigation underway
Local, state, and federal agencies are investigating the cause of the explosion. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are both involved in the ongoing probe.
