Jason Adams, Billy Baker Obituary, Death – Authorities have officially released the names of the sixteen individuals who lost their lives in the recent explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems, a manufacturing facility located in Hickman County, Tennessee. The tragic incident occurred early in the morning on October 10, prompting an extensive emergency response and a multi-agency investigation that continues to unfold.
The announcement came during a press briefing held on October 13, just outside the company’s main gates. Standing before gathered reporters, Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis and Hickman County Sheriff Jason Craft took turns reading aloud the names of those who perished, honoring their memories as the community continues to grieve the immense loss.
The victims have been identified as:
Jason Adams, Erick Anderson, Billy Baker, Adam Boatman, Christopher Clark, Mindy Clifton, James Cook, Reyna Gillahan, LaTeisha Mays, Jeremy Moore, Melinda Rainey, Melissa Stafford, Trenton Stewart, Rachel Woodall, Steven Wright, and Donald Yowell.
Each name represented a life connected to family, friends, and a close-knit community that has been deeply affected by the event. Local officials described the emotional toll as “immeasurable,” emphasizing that the small towns surrounding the plant are mourning together.
During the briefing, Sheriff Davis expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of residents as investigators continue their careful work at the site. He explained that parts of the facility remain highly unstable and dangerous to enter due to the materials involved. “We still have a lot of things inside the scene that are active,” Davis said, adding that crews are proceeding “at a snail’s pace” to ensure safety while gathering evidence and recovering personal items.
The explosion at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant, which specializes in producing materials used in military and industrial applications, caused significant structural damage. Emergency responders from multiple surrounding counties worked for hours to secure the area and contain potential hazards. Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), have joined the ongoing investigation to determine what led to the incident.
Residents living near the plant described hearing a loud blast followed by heavy smoke early that morning. Many said their homes shook, and some rushed outside to see flames and emergency vehicles rushing toward the facility. The explosion’s impact was felt several miles away, according to eyewitnesses.
As of now, officials have not released any information about the cause of the explosion. Investigators are reviewing operational records, employee schedules, and safety protocols to better understand the circumstances leading up to the event. They have also been interviewing staff members and company representatives to gather more details.
Community leaders and faith organizations across Hickman and Humphreys counties have come together to support affected families. Vigils and prayer services have been organized, and local charities have launched fundraising efforts to assist those who lost loved ones. Counseling services are also being made available for employees, first responders, and residents struggling to process the tragedy.
State officials, including Governor Bill Lee, expressed condolences and pledged full support for the investigation. In a statement, he said the state would continue coordinating with federal and local partners to ensure all safety procedures are followed and that the families receive the assistance they need.
As recovery efforts continue, Sheriff Craft said investigators are prioritizing both safety and respect for the victims and their families. “We want to make sure everything is handled with dignity,” he said. “Every person we lost was part of this community. They were friends, neighbors, and loved ones.”
Authorities plan to release further updates once the site is fully stabilized and the cause of the explosion is determined. In the meantime, officials urge the public to allow investigators the space and time they need to complete their work carefully.
The tragedy has left an indelible mark on Hickman County, where the focus now turns to healing and honoring the memory of those who were lost.
