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.”