October 28, 2025 | Explosion Injury
Federal officials have opened an investigation into one of the deadliest industrial accidents in the United States in recent years. The explosion at the Accurate Energetic Systems munitions plant in McEwen, Tennessee, killed 16 workers and left the surrounding community searching for answers.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announced that a team will arrive in Tennessee before the end of October to begin its investigation. The explosion reportedly involved up to 28,000 pounds of high explosives inside a 16,000-square-foot building near the border of Humphreys and Hickman Counties.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has been leading the site cleanup, analyzing the debris, and removing undetonated materials. The CSB continues to coordinate with the ATF and company officials to gather information that may help determine the cause of the explosion.
“This is one of the deadliest industrial incidents in our country in years,” said CSB Chairperson Steve Owens. “The investigators will meet with AES management, the ATF, and other officials to identify the information necessary to determine the cause of this horrific event.”
The CSB is an independent federal agency that investigates chemical and industrial incidents to help prevent future tragedies. Although it does not issue fines, the agency makes recommendations to improve workplace safety and prevent similar disasters from happening again.
What Victims and Families Should Do
- Seek medical care immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor right away and keep copies of all medical records and expenses. These will be essential for any future claim.
- Preserve evidence and information – If safe to do so, document the scene — take photos, note names of witnesses or coworkers, and write down what you remember. Federal agencies like the CSB and ATF will investigate, but your own records can make a big difference.
- Notify your employer and secure workplace records – If you were employed at the facility, report the incident in writing and request any relevant reports or safety documents. This can help establish what went wrong.
- Speak with an experienced attorney – Industrial explosion cases often involve multiple companies, contractors, and insurers. A skilled workplace-injury or wrongful-death attorney can help protect your rights and guide you through investigations and claims.
- Be cautious with insurers or company representatives – Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers before consulting a lawyer. These cases are complex, and quick offers rarely reflect the full value of your losses.
- Focus on recovery and long-term support – Serious explosions cause lasting emotional and financial harm. Stay organized, keep all documentation, and lean on your support network while your legal team pursues justice and compensation on your behalf.
At Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC, we help injured workers and families who have lost loved ones in industrial explosions, workplace accidents, and other catastrophic events. Our Tennessee workplace injury attorneys are committed to holding negligent employers and contractors accountable when safety failures cause harm.
If you or someone you love was affected by an industrial explosion or workplace accident in Tennessee, contact Minner Vines Injury Lawyers, PLLC for a free consultation. Our experienced Tennessee explosion accident attorneys fight for the justice and compensation victims deserve after serious injuries or wrongful death.
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