An implosion at a chemical tank inside a pulp and paper mill in southwestern Washington on Tuesday left several people dead and others critically injured, according to local authorities and company officials.
Emergency Response
Mike Gorsuch, battalion chief with the fire department in Longview, described the site as a “mass casualty scene.” He said emergency teams decontaminated victims before transporting them to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver. Around 40 firefighters, paramedics and a regional hazardous materials team responded to the scene.
Timeline and Identification
The incident occurred around 7:15 a.m. local time, and recovery operations were still underway hours later. Authorities said the identities of the victims would not be released until their families had been informed, as reported by the Associated Press.
Company and Facility Details
The company operates a pulp and paper mill and liquid packaging plant that produces materials used in tissues, printing paper, cartons, cups and plates. The facility employs around 1,000 workers, according to the Washington State Department of Ecology.
Official Statements
In a joint statement, Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co and law enforcement officials said the tank rupture resulted in multiple fatalities and serious injuries, including burn and inhalation cases. Officials added there was no immediate danger to the public.
Emergency crews continue to work at the scene, and investigations into the cause of the implosion are ongoing. The community has been urged to avoid the area as recovery efforts proceed.
