'Worst job site disaster we've ever had': Nine dead after Longview plant tank rupture, 2 remain unaccounted for

Seven of the nine people unaccounted for after a Longview packaging plant tank ruptured have been found dead, the Longview Fire Department confirmed in a news conference Friday. Two remain unaccounted for.

This comes after two people were confirmed dead after the tank containing white liquor ruptured early Tuesday morning, bringing the total number of deaths to nine. At least eight others, including one firefighter, are injured.

Longview Fire Department (LFD) Chief Brad Hannig said at a news conference Thursday that all recovered individuals underwent decontamination before being transported to the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office for identification. He thanked the community for an outpouring of support.

“We are incredibly humbled by the outpouring of support from the community for our first responders and the affected families. We know many people want to help and are looking for ways to contribute. Our team is currently working to coordinate verified donation and support channels, and we will share that information with the community as soon as it becomes available,” Hannig said.

https://mynorthwest.com/local/longview-implosion-chemical-burns/4241904?lid=bhkzzn5bh9oz