Two people are confirmed dead and nine others are presumed dead following a chemical tank rupture at a paper mill in Longview, Washington, officials said Wednesday morning. The incident, which occurred at the KapStone Paper and Packaging plant, is being described as potentially the deadliest industrial tragedy in modern Washington state history.
The Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office confirmed the death toll, noting that search and rescue efforts are ongoing. The tank rupture released a large amount of a chemical substance, though the exact substance has not been publicly identified. The cause of the rupture is under investigation by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries and the U.S. Chemical Safety Board.
Local hospitals reported treating several injured workers, but the number of injured has not been officially released. The plant has been shut down indefinitely as investigators work to determine the sequence of events leading to the disaster.
Governor Jay Inslee issued a statement expressing condolences and promising a full investigation. “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of those affected by this terrible tragedy,” Inslee said. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that such an incident never happens again.”
The Longview community is in mourning, with a vigil planned for Thursday evening. The mill, which employs hundreds of workers, is a major economic driver in the region. The incident has raised concerns about industrial safety protocols and the handling of hazardous materials.
