A devastating implosion at a paper mill in Longview, Washington, has resulted in at least one fatality, with the death toll expected to rise to 10 after a chemical tank ruptured. The incident occurred on Tuesday at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility, where a tank containing approximately 500,000 gallons of white liquor—a hazardous solution of sodium sulfide and sodium hydroxide capable of causing severe burns—collapsed.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts
The Longview Fire Department confirmed at a press conference on Tuesday evening that the implosion caused at least one death, with nine individuals still unaccounted for and multiple injuries reported. Cowlitz Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein stated, 'At the moment we are not aware of any rescues that are yet to be made.' Rescue operations were suspended before nightfall due to dangerous conditions, as the collapsed tank continued leaking about 90,000 gallons of the dangerous substance.
Approximately 40 firefighters and paramedics, along with a regional hazmat team, responded to the scene. Battalion Chief Mike Gorsuch described the situation as a 'mass casualty scene.' The mission on Wednesday will focus on stabilizing the tank, removing the remaining liquid, and locating those unaccounted for. Officials do not believe any survivors remained inside overnight.
Injuries and Community Impact
At least nine people were taken to hospitals with severe injuries, including burns and inhalation damage. Among the injured were eight employees from the pulp and paper mill and liquid packaging plant, as well as one firefighter. Families of those affected have been notified. The tragedy has deeply affected the Longview community, where many residents have friends and relatives working at the mill. A vigil was held on Tuesday evening after recovery efforts were halted.
Crystal Moldenhauer, a school board member with friends at the plant, told the Associated Press, 'We're all still waiting for answers. There's families that have been torn apart, and we don't know why.' Stephen Burright, a Longview resident, mentioned that five of his friends work at the mill, all of whom are accounted for. However, Darren Clifford, a former employee, expressed worry: 'I reached out to one of my closest friends... and I haven't heard from him. I've called his wife, I haven't heard anything back.'
Official Response and Investigation
Governor Bob Ferguson, U.S. Senator Patty Murray, and U.S. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez attended the press conference. Ferguson assured the community, 'On behalf of the people of Washington state, I want the Longview community to know that we stand with you.' The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries will investigate the cause of the implosion, a process that could take up to six months. The agency noted two unrelated ongoing inspections at the facility, but neither involved the imploded tank.
Authorities have stated there is no risk to the public, though residents near the plant should be cautious of irritating gases that may cause symptoms like itchy eyes, cough, or headaches. The Washington Poison Center issued an advisory that those not present at the mill are unlikely to become ill. Operations to stabilize the site and recover missing individuals will continue on Wednesday morning.
