Bucksnort TN Update: What We Know About the Deadly Explosion and Search Efforts

A powerful explosion at a military explosives plant in Bucksnort, Tennessee, has left at least 19 people missing and multiple fatalities confirmed, according to local authorities. The blast occurred early Friday, October 10, 2025, at the Accurate Energetic Systems facility, which manufactures explosives for the U.S. military and defense industry.

Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis described the incident as one of the most devastating scenes he has witnessed in his career. Emergency crews rushed to the site, but initial rescue efforts were hampered by ongoing smaller detonations following the primary blast.

Officials Confirm Deaths as 19 Remain Missing After Bucksnort TN Explosion

The explosion happened around 7:45 a.m. local time at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant, which spans eight buildings over 1,300 acres in rural Hickman County, about 60 miles southwest of Nashville. Sheriff Davis confirmed that several people were killed, but authorities are withholding the exact number until families are notified. Nineteen individuals are still unaccounted for and feared dead.

“There’s nothing to describe. It’s gone,” Davis told reporters, referring to the building destroyed by the blast. Aerial footage from local news helicopters showed that one entire hilltop structure had been obliterated, leaving behind smoldering debris and burned-out vehicles.

Residents as far as 20 miles away reported feeling the ground shake and hearing the massive explosion. “I thought the house had collapsed with me inside of it,” said local resident Gentry Stover, who lives near the facility. “About 30 seconds later, I realized it had to have been Accurate.”

Officials say there is no longer a risk of additional large explosions, and the scene was brought under control by Friday afternoon. However, the cause of the blast remains unknown. Investigators warn that determining what triggered the explosion could take several days.

Accurate Energetic Systems has not yet issued a public statement. The company, based in nearby McEwen, supplies high-energy explosives to the U.S. military and other clients. Its operations are a significant part of the local economy, and officials expressed concern about the broader impact this disaster may have on the community.

Community Shock and Ongoing Investigation in Bucksnort, Tennessee

The explosion has shaken the small Bucksnort community, where many residents are connected to the facility through employment or family ties. McEwen Mayor Brad Rachford called the incident a “tragedy for our community” and pledged full support for affected families.

State Representative Jody Barrett expressed concerns about potential economic fallout, noting that Accurate Energetic Systems is a key employer in the region. “We absolutely heard it at the house,” Barrett said. “It sounded like something going through the roof.”

Emergency teams from multiple counties and state agencies continue to assist in recovery and investigation efforts. Authorities are using drones and specialized equipment to search through debris, hoping to locate the missing workers. Officials emphasized that identifying victims and notifying families will be a slow and delicate process.

The Bucksnort TN update continues to evolve as investigators work to determine what caused the deadly blast. As of Saturday morning, the priority remains locating the 19 missing individuals and supporting their families through this devastating tragedy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What caused the Bucksnort TN explosion?

The cause has not been determined. Investigators are examining the site, but the process could take several days.

Q2: How many people are missing after the Bucksnort explosion?

Officials report that 19 people are currently unaccounted for, and multiple fatalities have been confirmed.

Q3: Where is Accurate Energetic Systems located?

The plant is located near Bucksnort, Tennessee, about 60 miles southwest of Nashville, in rural Hickman County.

Q4: Is there still a danger of more explosions?

Authorities say the scene is now secure and there is no further danger of large explosions.

Q5: What happens next in the investigation?

Officials will continue search and recovery operations and investigate the cause of the blast. Updates are expected as more information becomes available.

References

Associated Press. (2025). “19 missing after blast at Tennessee military explosives plant, sheriff says.” October 10, 2025.

Reuters. (2025). “Deadly explosion rips through explosives facility in Tennessee.” October 10, 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “Tennessee explosives plant blast leaves multiple dead and missing.” October 10, 2025.