Bucksnort, TN — A day after a catastrophic explosion rocked the Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) facility near the Hickman-Humphreys County line, officials confirmed that all sixteen individuals inside the building at the time of the blast are presumed dead.
The explosion occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. Friday, reducing one of the plant’s major buildings to rubble and sending shockwaves across Middle Tennessee. The 1,300-acre site, known for manufacturing explosives, now stands as a somber reminder of the lives lost and the dangers faced by those who worked there.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis, visibly emotional during a Saturday evening press conference, announced the shift from a search-and-rescue mission to recovery. “We’re moving to recovery,” he said. “At this time, we have recovered no survivors.”
Two individuals initially listed as missing were later found safe, bringing the final death toll to sixteen. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has deployed a rapid DNA team to assist in identifying remains—a process expected to take weeks due to the hazardous conditions.
Federal agencies including the ATF and FBI are now on-site, conducting forensic analysis and reviewing cell phone data to piece together the final moments before the blast. Controlled detonations are being carried out to safely dispose of unstable materials, and residents in the area have been advised they may hear or feel additional blasts in the coming days.
The emotional toll is deep. Many first responders knew the victims personally. The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team arrived Friday night to offer spiritual care and counseling to grieving families and emergency crews. “We’re here to support those who were working in the plant, their loved ones, and anyone affected by this tragedy,” said Josh Holland, international director of the BG-RRT.
AES has opened a Family Assistance Center, and the TBI has activated a missing person’s hotline at 1-800-TBI-FIND. Officials continue to urge the public to avoid the area and report any debris to local authorities for safe handling.
