Longview Paper Mill Disaster Increases Death Toll Amid Ongoing Recovery Efforts
The death toll from the chemical tank rupture at the Nippon Dynawave mill in Longview has risen to eight, with three more individuals presumed dead as recovery efforts continue in hazardous conditions.
Recovery teams have confirmed eight fatalities following a chemical tank rupture at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. in Longview earlier this week. Among the deceased, two individuals were pronounced dead at local hospitals, while three others remain unaccounted for and are presumed dead. Longview Fire Department Chief Brad Hannig described the situation as an "active and hazardous environment."
One of the victims, Gilbert Bernal, was an instrument technician at the facility. His daughter reflected on his dedication, stating, "He literally did everything for us. It’s just really, actually, heartbreaking that the career that he worked so hard, is what took him out."
The incident, which occurred during a shift change, complicated recovery efforts as more employees were present at the site. The unstable tank continues to leak caustic chemicals, making the area hazardous to navigate, and efforts to locate missing workers are hampered by a complex industrial landscape, according to Washington state Senator Jeff Wilson.
While the chemical release has been contained within the industrial site and does not pose a risk to local air quality or drinking water, tens of thousands of gallons of a caustic chemical known as white liquor escaped, some of which reached nearby storm drains. Local authorities are actively monitoring the situation and advising residents to avoid dikes and ditches.
This incident marks Washington state's deadliest workplace tragedy since a coal mine disaster in 1930 that killed 17 people. Longview firefighters and first responders, many of whom have ties to the mill, are deeply affected by the disaster. "It continues to be incredibly difficult for us," said Longview Fire battalion chief Matt Amos.
Operations at the mill have been halted, and employees unable to work due to the ongoing response are being compensated. Longview, historically tied to the timber and paper industries, now faces uncertainty about the future of this crucial local employer, as U.S. Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan to ensure workplace safety and public trust.
