Seven of the nine missing workers' bodies have been found following a fatal chemical tank implosion. As reported by CBS News, the tragic incident occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility in Longview, Washington, on Tuesday, May 26.
The current death toll sits at 11, as two people were pronounced dead at the scene. According to USA Today, seven workers were also injured. They faced injuries ranging from burns to smoke inhalation.
Six bodies were originally found on Thursday, May 28. They were found in what authorities called a "workers' area". Employees would typically gather there before and after their shifts.
Authorities explained that the reason behind the bodies being found there may have had to do with the timing of the tragic event. The incident apparently occurred during a shift change, meaning employees were expected to be in the area.
It has not been stated where the seventh body was found.
There hasn't been a timeline stated for the recovery of the other two bodies. The battalion chief of the Longview Fire Department, Matt Amos, explained that the situation was "very complex".
He also added that there were several environmental hazards in play, which were slowing down the search efforts. These include collapsed structures and exposed live wires.
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Another issue following the blast was the environmental impact. The tank that imploded was holding a chemical consisting of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, both of which are incredibly toxic.
The Environmental Protection Agency said that some of the tank's liquid may have leaked into a water supply. However, this has been refuted by Chris Collins, a public works director. He explained, "There is no cause for concern," as the water has been tested.
He added that the wells involved in the water supply are "very protected". In any case, there are plans to clear the ditches of contaminants, with fresh water being pumped in in order to dilute the chemicals to safe levels.
The EPA also expressed concern about hydrogen sulfide in the air, although none has been detected thus far.
Rest in peace to the victims of this tragic incident.
