By Saqib S.Qureshi
A deadly chemical tank disaster at a Washington state paper mill has sparked growing safety fears after multiple people were killed and several others injured in a catastrophic industrial failure that sent emergency crews and hazmat teams rushing to the scene. Authorities say victims suffered chemical burns and trauma injuries after a massive tank containing hazardous chemicals ruptured at the facility, while investigators are now trying to determine what triggered the deadly incident.
Authorities said the incident happened at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co., where an 80,000-gallon tank holding “white liquor” — a caustic chemical mixture used in the kraft paper production process — ruptured while about 60% full.
Emergency officials confirmed fatalities, but the exact death toll has not yet been released as recovery and accountability operations continue. Some people remain unaccounted for, according to local authorities.
The injured included nine workers and one responding firefighter. Officials said victims suffered chemical burns, inhalation injuries and trauma, with conditions ranging from minor to critical.
PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center received nine patients after the incident. One person was pronounced dead at the hospital, two were transferred, and six were listed in fair condition, according to reports.
Fire crews, hazmat teams and plant officials worked to stabilize the site while environmental responders assessed possible chemical contamination. Authorities said there was no immediate threat to the wider public, but residents were urged to avoid the area.
The cause of the tank failure remains under investigation. Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson and Sen. Patty Murray both responded to the tragedy as state and local agencies continued supporting victims’ families and emergency crews.