NUNNELLY, Tenn. (AP) — Just miles from a rural Tennessee plant leveled by a devastating explosion, congregants of Maple Valley Baptist Church devoted Sunday’s service to the 16 deceased victims and their families.
Several in attendance knew employees at Accurate Energetic Systems, which provides explosives for the military and is a long-standing employer in the area. Pastor Jimmy Andrews expressed the somber atmosphere within the community facing this tragedy, saying, It’s family and friends just trying to hold each other up during this most difficult time.
Churches across nearby communities, including a service attended by Governor Bill Lee, held vigils and services to help congregants process the loss.
Lee remarked on the staggering losses as he surveyed damage by helicopter, expressing the community's collective grief.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, with emergency crews working meticulously at the scene to seek evidence while ensuring public safety through controlled explosions to dispose of hazardous materials. The sheriff’s office stated, Extraordinary precautions are in place to prevent further damage and injuries.
The initial blast was felt for over 20 miles, devastating the plant, with no survivors reported. The community has since banded together, offering support to one another and planning vigils, including one at the courthouse.
Recalling the tragedy, community member Brandon Brake stated, It’s been a tragic time. We’re going to pull through.
In a show of solidarity, flags in the nearby town of McEwen were flown at half-staff as local leaders pledged continuing support for affected families. Andrews urged his parishioners to take extra care of one another, reflecting the unwavering spirit of community in times of adversity.
Several in attendance knew employees at Accurate Energetic Systems, which provides explosives for the military and is a long-standing employer in the area. Pastor Jimmy Andrews expressed the somber atmosphere within the community facing this tragedy, saying, It’s family and friends just trying to hold each other up during this most difficult time.
Churches across nearby communities, including a service attended by Governor Bill Lee, held vigils and services to help congregants process the loss.
Lee remarked on the staggering losses as he surveyed damage by helicopter, expressing the community's collective grief.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, with emergency crews working meticulously at the scene to seek evidence while ensuring public safety through controlled explosions to dispose of hazardous materials. The sheriff’s office stated, Extraordinary precautions are in place to prevent further damage and injuries.
The initial blast was felt for over 20 miles, devastating the plant, with no survivors reported. The community has since banded together, offering support to one another and planning vigils, including one at the courthouse.
Recalling the tragedy, community member Brandon Brake stated, It’s been a tragic time. We’re going to pull through.
In a show of solidarity, flags in the nearby town of McEwen were flown at half-staff as local leaders pledged continuing support for affected families. Andrews urged his parishioners to take extra care of one another, reflecting the unwavering spirit of community in times of adversity.
