Chemical tank implosion at Longview Washington mill kills

A chemical tank implosion at a pulp and paper mill in Longview, Washington, on Tuesday morning has resulted in multiple fatalities and critical injuries, according to local authorities and company officials. The incident, which occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility, was described by emergency responders as a mass casualty scene.

The rupture of the tank, which contained hazardous liquid, caused the casualties, a joint statement from the company and local law enforcement confirmed. While the exact number of people killed and injured has not been disclosed, officials reported that several people suffered from chemical burns and inhalation injuries. Mike Gorsuch, a battalion chief with the Longview Fire Department, said first responders decontaminated patients at the scene before transporting them to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver, Washington.

Authorities have stated there is no immediate threat to the public from the incident. The emergency call was received at 7:19 a.m. local time, prompting a large-scale response. Approximately 40 firefighters and paramedics, supported by a regional hazardous materials team, were deployed to the site.