3pm Number of missing reduced to 16 as recovery and investigation continue
State officials say the number of individuals unaccounted for following Friday’s explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems has decreased from 18 to 16 after confirming two individuals thought to have been at the facility during the explosion were actually away from the site at the time.
The State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville remains at Level 4 – Elevated, supporting local and federal agencies working at the scene. The ATF National Response Team continues to assist with the investigation into the cause of the explosion.
Controlled detonations will continue periodically to safely dispose of unstable materials, with at least 30 minutes’ notice provided through local social media channels. Officials emphasize there is no known threat to public safety, though residents are urged to avoid the area.
A Family Assistance Center remains open to support those affected, and anyone in emotional distress is encouraged to call or text 988 for mental health support. The next flash report is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT Sunday.
1pm Controlled detonations planned as investigation continues
11:05am 'At this time we have recovered no survivors:' Officials hold first press conference of Day 2
- Sheriff Chris Davis said the scene is “even more devastating than we thought,” confirming no survivors have been found.
- ATF officials said the site remains volatile as teams work cautiously and begin rapid DNA identification.
10am Officials issue new state update on Hickman County explosion
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency says the State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville remains activated at Level 4 – Elevated to support local response efforts.
As of 10 a.m. CT, officials report no new updates regarding fatalities or injuries. Eighteen individuals remain unaccounted for.
TEMA clarified that Accurate Energetic Systems is a privately owned facility that processes — but does not manufacture — ammunition and explosives.
A TBI Missing Persons Hotline has been established at 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463), and the company has opened a family assistance center for those seeking information.
Multiple state and federal agencies, including TDOT, TDEC, TDH, THP, DHS, and TWRA, continue to assist with the ongoing response.
The next state update is expected at 3 p.m. CT.
Our thoughts are with everyone impacted. If you’ve been affected by this tragedy or have information to share, please reach out to me at Holly.Lehren@newschannel5.com.
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