Deadly explosion levels Tennessee explosives plant

A massive explosion Friday morning leveled an explosives manufacturing facility in McEwen, Tennessee

(CNN)- A massive explosion Friday morning leveled an explosives manufacturing facility in McEwen, Tennessee — about an hour southwest of Nashville — leaving at least 19 people dead or missing, according to the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Chris Davis fought back tears as he confirmed the devastating loss.
Sheriff Chris Davis, Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office: “We have been able to confirm that we do have 19 souls that we’re looking for. So I ask you to keep in mind those families.”

The blast occurred at Accurate Energetic Systems, a company that specializes in producing military-grade explosives. The explosion was so powerful that it was captured on a home security camera and could be felt up to 20 miles away. Some residents initially thought it was an earthquake, lightning strike, or even a meteor.

Tennessee State Senator Kerry Roberts said investigators are still trying to determine how many employees were inside the facility when it exploded. The company has about 80 workers, though it’s unclear how many were on duty at the time.

Multiple law enforcement and emergency agencies are on the scene, working to determine the cause of the blast.