Flash Report #4 Explosion in Hickman County

Saturday, October 11, 2025 | 02:39pm

Highlights

  • The State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville is activated at a Level 4 – Elevated to support local requests associated with the explosion at Accurate Energetic System.
  • As of 3 p.m. CT, there are no updates regarding fatalities or injuries.
  • The number of unaccounted-for individuals has gone from 18 to 16.
  • If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988 for immediate support.
  • Accurate Energetic Systems is a privately owned industrial facility that processes ammunition and explosives. They do not manufacture them.
  • The TBI Missing Persons hotline has been established. (1-800-TBI-FIND/1-800-824-3463)
  • Accurate Energetic Systems has established a family assistance center.
  • Multiple local, state, and federal agencies are responding to this incident.
  • Emergency Service Coordinators (ESCs) from TDOT, TDEC, TDH, THP, TN Department of Human Services, TWRA, and more are monitoring the situation and assisting as local jurisdictions request resources.
  • The following flash report will be sent tomorrow, October 12, at 11 a.m. CT.

Current Situation

Response efforts continue following the October 10 explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) in Hickman/Humphreys counties. Emergency responders from across the region remain on scene, working alongside the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) National Response Team, which is assisting with scene examination and investigative support.

The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Officials have confirmed that the number of unaccounted individuals has decreased from 18 to 16, after verifying that two people previously believed to be on site were alive and not at the facility at the time of the explosion.

Due to the significant debris and potential presence of explosive materials, response operations are progressing slowly and methodically. Controlled detonations will be conducted periodically at the site to dispose of unstable or hazardous materials safely. Nearby residents may hear or feel these detonations as they occur. Local officials will provide at least 30 minutes’ notice through their social media channel prior to each controlled explosion.

There is no known threat to public health or safety as a result of the explosion. However, the public is urged to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to continue their work safely and efficiently. Residents who locate debris that may have originated from the explosion are asked to contact their local sheriff’s office. Trained personnel will respond to ensure the safe handling and collection of any debris.

Accurate Energetic Systems has established a Family Assistance Center to support families impacted by the incident. The center is providing information, emotional support, and other resources. Individuals experiencing emotional distress related to this incident are encouraged to contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 for immediate mental health support.

TEMA continues to provide logistical support, including pallets of water, communications equipment, and personnel to assist local emergency management operations. The State Emergency Operations Center remains activated at Level 4 – Elevated to support ongoing coordination.

Tennessee Bureau of Investigation

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has established a hotline (1-800-TBI-FIND/1-800-824-3463) to coordinate reports of missing persons. Callers should be prepared to relay specific information about the missing individuals.

Tennessee Department of Health

The Tennessee Department of Health has not reported any fatalities or injuries.

Tennessee Highway Patrol

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is assisting with law enforcement duties as needed.

Tennessee Department of Transportation

All state routes have been reopened. However, avoid the area, if possible, to allow emergency responders to continue their work safely and efficiently. For the most up-to-date road closures, visit TDOT’s SmartWay website.

Protective Actions and Key Messages

  • If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call 988 for immediate support.
  • Residents who locate debris that may have come from the explosion are asked to contact their local sheriff’s office so trained personnel can respond safely.
  • Follow all local guidance.
  • Avoid the area to allow emergency responders to operate safely.
  • For your safety and to assist responders, please minimize non-emergency calls to the Sheriff’s Office and 9-1-1.