16 people confirmed dead in blast at Tennessee explosives factory

"A blast in rural Tennessee that leveled an explosives plant and was felt for miles around killed 16 people and left no survivors, authorities said. The explosion left a smoldering wreck of twisted and charred metal and burned-out vehicles at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant, which supplies and researches explosives for the military. The cause of the blast is not known. Investigators are combing the incinerated property foot-by-foot searching for possible evidence."

"There's a gantlet of emotions there, Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said during a news conference, pausing to clear his throat before he asked for prayers for the families of the victims in a shaky voice. We've recovered no survivors, he said. During a vigil at Hurricane Chapel in McEwen, senior pastor Tim Farris noted that many in attendance know each other, the victims and their families."

A powerful blast in rural Tennessee flattened an explosives plant and was felt for miles, killing 16 people and leaving no survivors. The Accurate Energetic Systems facility, which supplies and researches explosives for the military, was reduced to twisted, charred metal and burned-out vehicles. Investigators are searching the incinerated site foot-by-foot to find evidence, and authorities have not determined the cause. Local officials and faith leaders described deep shock and grief, held vigils, and urged prayers as families and the community cope with emotional trauma and loss.

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