Victims of Tennessee explosives factory get identified by authorities

(MENAFN) Authorities have identified the 16 people who died in a devastating explosion at a munitions factory in Hickman County, Tennessee. The blast at Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) early on 10 October left no survivors.

During a Monday news briefing, Sheriffs Chris Davis of Humphreys County and Jason Craft of Hickman County read the names of the victims, urging support for their families in the aftermath. The individuals identified are: Jason Adams, Erick Anderson, Billy Baker, Adam Boatman, Christopher Clark, Mindy Clifton, James Cook, Reyna Gillahan, LaTeisha Mays, Jeremy Moore, Melinda Rainey, Melissa Stanford, Trenton Stewart, Rachel Woodall, Steven Wright, and Donald Yowell. Authorities noted that while the names are confirmed, the identification of remains is still ongoing.

Sheriff Davis described the incident as one of the most devastating of his career, noting personal connections to some victims: a teacher, a neighbor’s husband, and a close friend. Initial reports feared 18 deaths, but two individuals initially thought to be onsite were later located elsewhere.

The tragedy has deeply affected the tight-knit community. Residents recalled personal connections to those killed, such as Reyna Gillahan, remembered by her friend of 20 years as a “beautiful soul” and devoted mother. Donald Yowell, a chemist at AES, leaves behind a wife and son, while Mindy Clifton, a former corrections officer, had recently relocated from Florida to work at the factory. LaTeisha Mays, 26, was described by her family as "the glue" holding them together. Rachel Woodall had worked at AES as a production manager for about a month, and Jeremy Moore, who had spent 17 years at the company, died just 10 days shy of his 38th birthday. Trenton Stewart, a firefighter and pastor, had served both his local community and church.

The blast, which registered as a 1.6-magnitude earthquake, reduced the Bucksnort facility to charred rubble, smoldering vehicles, and debris, leaving the site hazardous for first responders.

AES stated that emergency teams and investigative agencies remain onsite, working to determine the cause of the explosion.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, coworkers, and community members affected by this incident,” the company said in a statement, adding gratitude for the first responders who continue to operate under challenging conditions.

The plant specializes in the development, manufacture, handling, and storage of explosives, and the loss has sent shockwaves through the local area, a community where personal ties run deep and nearly everyone knows each other.

MENAFN14102025000045017640ID1110192273