2 Dead, 9 Missing After Chemical Tank Implosion at Paper Mill

A tragic incident occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company in Longview, Washington, on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, when a hazardous liquid tank ruptured, resulting in the loss of two lives and injuries to several others. The incident is poised to be one of the most devastating industrial tragedies in recent state history.

The rupture happened at approximately 7:15 AM, leading to the release of a chemical mixture known as white liquor, integral in the paper-making process. Reports indicate that the tank was roughly 60% full at the time, with between 550,000 and 570,000 gallons of the chemical still contained in the larger 900,000-gallon tank.

In the aftermath, one individual, identified as Gilbert Bernal, succumbed to injuries sustained during the incident. His daughter, Geovana Bernal, confirmed the news. As emergency responders worked tirelessly to manage the situation, a second fatality was confirmed the following day, drawing attention to the severity of the event.

The Longview Fire Department announced that as of Wednesday, 27 May, nine individuals were confirmed missing, while another seven had to be hospitalised due to injuries. The conditions of those in hospital have not been disclosed. One firefighter also sustained injuries but has since been released from medical care.

Battalion Chief Matt Amos of the Longview Fire Department described the recovery operation as “slow, methodical, and deliberate,” underscoring the importance of ensuring safety for all responders. He added that every effort would be made to treat all victims with dignity, care, and respect. After all missing individuals are located, the bodies will be decontaminated and transferred to the Cowlitz County Coroner’s Office for identification and notifying families.

Governor Bob Ferguson addressed the media at a press conference, characterising the incident as a potential turning point for industrial safety in the state. He stated, “When you have a tragedy of that scale, the impacts on individuals, on families and on communities is profound,” expressing his condolences to those affected by the situation.

Scott Goldstein, Chief of Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significant emotional toll on the victims, their families, colleagues, and the community at large. “There are members working the site tirelessly who have lost coworkers, lost friends, and they remain dedicated to focusing on our recovery efforts,” he remarked.

The cause of the tank rupture remains under investigation, with officials from the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board looking into the matter. Meanwhile, the Washington State Department of Ecology and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are on-site monitoring air and water quality. Goldstein reported that, thus far, there have been no indications of environmental contamination.

As the recovery efforts continue, the community remains in shock over the incident’s unfolding events. Local authorities are working diligently to ensure safety measures are reinforced throughout the area, as further investigations solidify the facts surrounding this catastrophic failure.

The investigation and recovery process may take time, but the commitment to the victims and their families remains a priority for all officials involved. Community members are encouraged to look out for one another during this challenging time, and resources are being made available for those in need of support.

This tragic occurrence not only brings to light the potential dangers inherent in industrial work but also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life in such settings. The broader implications for safety regulations in industrial practices will likely come under intense scrutiny in the weeks to come.