19 Dead After Massive Explosion at Tennessee Ammo Plant — ‘Most Devastating Scene’ Sheriff Has Seen
A catastrophic explosion at a Tennessee military explosives plant early Friday morning has killed 19 people, officials confirmed — making it one of the deadliest industrial disasters in the state’s history.
The blast tore through Accurate Energetic Systems around 7:45 a.m., leveling at least one building and scattering debris for miles. The explosion’s force was so intense that homes miles away shook violently, with residents mistaking the shockwave for an earthquake or lightning strike.
Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis spoke somberly at a press briefing: “We’re missing 19 souls,” he said. “I always wish for the best, but this is the most devastating scene I’ve seen in my career.”
Nearby residents were jolted awake by the blast. “I thought the house had collapsed with me inside,” said Gentry Stover, who lives near the facility. “About 30 seconds later, I realized it had to have been Accurate.”
Even those 20 miles away felt the tremors. “It woke me up — I thought lightning struck the house,” said Cody Warren of Lobelville.
Authorities said the initial blast triggered smaller secondary explosions before firefighters and hazmat crews managed to stabilize the scene later that morning. Three people suffered minor injuries; two were released from the hospital, while one remains under observation.
Accurate Energetic Systems, which sits on a sprawling 1,300-acre property near the Hickman–Humphreys County line, produces military and commercial explosives. The plant employs roughly 80 people. The building where the explosion occurred was completely destroyed.
“It’s devastating,” said Hickman County Mayor Jim Bates. “They manufacture not only military-grade explosives but also materials for demolition and infrastructure projects.”
State Senator Kerry Roberts said the loss would hit the small community hard. “It’s a well-loved company in this area,” he said. “This will affect dozens of families — it’s heartbreaking.”
The cause of the explosion remains unknown. Investigators from local, state, and federal agencies — including Tennessee Highway Patrol’s Special Operations Unit — are scouring the wreckage for clues.
“Do I see a short-term explanation? No,” Sheriff Davis said. “Do I see us being here for many days? Yes.”
The facility has a tragic history. In 2014, another explosion on the same site killed one worker and injured four others. That blast occurred in a section operated by Rio Ammunition but within the Accurate Energetic Systems complex.
Adding to the gravity, the company had just been awarded a $120 million Department of Defense contract last month for TNT production.
By nightfall Friday, heavy machinery was clearing debris as families gathered nearby, awaiting word about their loved ones. Law enforcement has asked the public to stay clear of the area while the investigation continues.