Local News
Reyna Gillahan Identified Among Victims Killed in Accurate Energetic Systems Explosion
Authorities have identified Reyna Gillahan as one of the victims who tragically lost their lives in the devastating explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) in Tennessee.
The blast, described as a “mass detonation,” leveled part of the manufacturing facility in Bucksnort, about 50 miles southwest of Nashville, leaving numerous individuals dead or missing.
Reyna’s daughter, Rosalina Gillahan, shared a heartbreaking tribute in her memory, honoring both her mother’s life and her final wish.
“Today, on October 10, 2025, our family experienced an unimaginable loss when my mom tragically passed away in the accident at AES,” Rosalina wrote. “She was a beautiful soul — loving, strong, and always thinking of others before herself.”
Rosalina explained that her mother’s lifelong dream was to pay off her home, a place filled with cherished memories.
“She still owed about $25,000, and our goal now is to fulfill her wish and pay it off — to keep the home she worked so hard for and loved so deeply within our family. It was her pride and comfort, and she always said she wanted it to stay in the family.”
Rosalina announced she is raising funds to help make that dream a reality.
“Any amount, no matter how small, means the world to us. Please share or donate if you’re able. Thank you for keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers as we navigate this heartbreak.”
Authorities have confirmed that Trent Stewart, Melissa Dawn Stanford, Chris Clark, Reyna Gillahan, and Jeremy Moore are among those either deceased or missing following the explosion.
Jeremy Moore’s mother, Ava Hinson, said her son had been working in Building 602, the structure believed to have been completely destroyed.
“The last I heard from him, he dropped his daughter off with me and was headed to work,” Hinson said. “It’s unbelievable — the not knowing. I almost don’t want to hear bad news, but I’d feel better if I knew.”
Among the victims is also Pastor Trent Stewart of The Log Church, whose congregation announced the cancellation of Sunday School and worship services.
“In their place, we will gather for a time of prayer in the sanctuary at 10:00 a.m. All are welcome to join us,” the church said in a statement.
“Our motto is ‘come as you are,’ and tomorrow, that includes bringing your hurts, your grief, and your brokenness to the feet of Jesus.”
State officials confirmed that the number of individuals unaccounted for has decreased from 18 to 16, after determining that two employees initially believed to be missing were not present at the time of the explosion.
The State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville remains at Level 4 – Elevated, coordinating efforts with local, state, and federal agencies, including the ATF National Response Team, which is leading the investigation into the cause of the blast.
Controlled detonations continue periodically to neutralize unstable materials, with at least 30 minutes’ notice provided via local social media. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to public safety, though residents are urged to avoid the area.
A Family Assistance Center remains open to support relatives and survivors. Authorities are also encouraging anyone struggling emotionally to reach out for help by calling or texting 988 for mental health support.
During a Saturday press briefing, Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis confirmed that no survivors had been found after extensive search efforts involving more than 300 investigators combing the site.
“We’ve been through almost every square inch of this facility, and at this time, we’ve recovered no survivors,” Davis said, his voice heavy with emotion. “It’s even more devastating than we thought initially — truly a tremendous loss.”
Davis confirmed that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is using rapid DNA testing to help identify remains.
“We’re dealing with explosions, and at this point, we’re dealing with remains,” he said. “We can’t yet rule out foul play — that determination may take days, weeks, or even months.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) deployed its National Response Team, an elite unit of explosives experts, engineers, chemists, and investigators.
The team has previously handled major national incidents, including the Oklahoma City bombing, the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, and the 9/11 attack on the Pentagon.
“Our specialists are on scene conducting a meticulous and methodical investigation to determine the origin and cause of this explosion,” said Guy McCormick, supervisory special agent with ATF’s Nashville Field Division.
The Accurate Energetic Systems plant sits on 1,300 acres in rural Hickman and Humphreys Counties and manufactures explosives for military, aerospace, oil, and commercial demolition industries.
Eight buildings on the property are used for production, storage, and testing of highly energetic materials.
Company officials released a statement following the tragedy:
“At approximately 7:45 a.m. this morning, there was a tragic accident at our facility. Emergency response teams and investigative agencies remain on scene, and the situation is under active investigation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, coworkers, and community members affected by this incident. We extend our gratitude to all first responders who continue to work tirelessly under difficult conditions. We will provide updates as more verified information becomes available.”
Authorities say the area is now secure and that the risk of secondary explosions has been contained. Sheriff Davis warned, however, that the investigation could take several days or even weeks before the cause is determined.
“There won’t be a short-term explanation,” he said. “But our focus remains on recovery, accountability, and supporting the families who have lost so much.”
Local News
Three Killed in Highway 61 Crash Near Walls, Mississippi; Victims Identified as Latasha Dodson, Eddie Dodson, and Tamenshia Ford
WALLS, Mississippi — Three people were killed in a serious collision Wednesday evening near U.S. Highway 61 and Church Road in Walls, leaving multiple families grieving and a community mourning the sudden loss of their loved ones.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 8:04 p.m. and involved a 2021 Honda Accord and another vehicle driven by 27-year-old Da’Quarius M. Burton of Memphis, Tennessee.
Authorities identified the three people who died inside the Honda Accord as:
- Latasha N. Dodson, 37, of Horn Lake
- Eddie L. Dodson, 41, of Byhalia
- Tamenshia R. Ford, 32, of Horn Lake
All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash also left two people injured. Da’Quarius M. Burton, who was driving the other vehicle, survived the collision, as did a fourth occupant of the Honda Accord whose identity has not yet been released.
Both survivors were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Officials have not provided an update on their conditions.
The circumstances leading up to the collision remain under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
The tragedy has also deeply affected local law enforcement and public service communities. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that one of its juvenile detention officers was among those who died in the crash. Another employee was seriously injured.
In a statement, the Sheriff’s Office remembered its fallen employee as a respected and beloved member of the team who demonstrated kindness, compassion, and dedication to the young people entrusted to their care.
The department also recognized the lasting difference the employee made through their work and the positive influence they had on others.
Officials have not publicly identified which of the three victims worked for the Sheriff’s Office.
The Walls Police Department also confirmed that one of its patrol officers was involved in the collision. However, the department has not clarified the officer’s condition or released additional information about the circumstances surrounding their involvement.
The crash has therefore brought grief and concern to several public safety agencies, including the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office and the Walls Police Department.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash near Highway 61 and Church Road. Authorities have not released a determination about what caused the vehicles to collide.
Further information may become available as investigators review the circumstances of the incident and complete their work.
The deaths of Latasha N. Dodson, Eddie L. Dodson, and Tamenshia R. Ford represent an enormous loss for their families, friends, and everyone who knew them.
Three individuals from different communities have now been lost in a single devastating incident. Their loved ones are left to face the difficult days ahead while holding on to the memories they shared.
The loss has also been felt by colleagues and members of the local public safety community, particularly those mourning the juvenile detention officer remembered for compassion and dedication to young people.
During this painful time, thoughts are with the families of all three victims, the injured survivors, and the employees of the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office and Walls Police Department.
May Latasha N. Dodson, Eddie L. Dodson, and Tamenshia R. Ford rest in peace.