Death Toll Rises to Eleven After Chemical Tank Rupture at Washington Packaging Plant

Longview Fire Chief Brad Hannig confirmed the recovery of the final victim on Saturday. "Wir haben die Leiche des neunten und letzten vermissten Angestellten geborgen", Hannig said, according to a statement released by the fire department.

The fire department reported the updated death toll as search and recovery operations concluded. The initial incident on Tuesday triggered a massive emergency response as the corrosive liquid spilled from the ruptured vessel.

White liquor, primarily composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, is extremely alkaline and can cause severe chemical burns upon contact with skin or if inhaled. The scale of the release posed significant hazards to workers and first responders.

Investigation and Environmental Concerns

The company has not yet released a detailed statement on the cause of the tank failure. Investigations by federal workplace safety regulators and state environmental agencies are expected to begin immediately.

The facility is located near the Columbia River in Longview, Washington. Environmental authorities are monitoring the area for potential contamination from the chemical release, though the immediate focus has remained on the human toll.

This incident ranks among the deadliest industrial chemical accidents in the United States in recent years. It underscores the persistent dangers associated with handling large volumes of hazardous substances in manufacturing settings.

Community Response

Community leaders in Longview have expressed shock and grief over the loss of life. Support services are being organized for the families of the deceased workers and for other employees affected by the tragedy.

The recovery of the last missing employee brings a grim closure to the search phase of the disaster. Attention will now shift to determining the root cause of the rupture and preventing similar incidents in the future.