On May 26, tragedy struck at the Nippon Dynawave paper mill in Longview, Washington, when a white liquor tank unexpectedly failed. This catastrophic incident led to the loss of nine workers. After five days of searching, officials confirmed that they had recovered and identified all those who were missing.
Longview Fire Chief Brad Hannig shared the news with the community. “Today, I can confirm the recovery of the ninth and final employee,” he stated. This recovery marked the end of a difficult week for the community, which found itself grappling with deep sorrow and loss.
The victims ranged in age from 26 to 54, with names including Dale Miller, Clinton (CJ) Doran, and Gilbert Bernal. Tragically, two individuals were pronounced dead shortly after the explosion, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Rescue efforts were grueling and involved navigating hazardous debris. Kurt Stich, chief of Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue, described the conditions as challenging. “It was physically laborious work,” he explained. Scott Tift, president of Western Pulp and Paperworkers, emphasized the powerful community support that unfolded during this time of crisis.
As the community mourns, concerns have arisen about environmental impacts. Brooks Stanfield from the EPA reported an increase in dead fish in local waterways. He pointed out that citizens have been actively reporting these incidents through a dedicated hotline, helping direct cleanup efforts. Most of the fish found have been carp, but reports also include other wildlife.
This event has prompted a wave of support for the affected families. Various fundraising pages have been established to assist those struggling in the wake of this disaster, with many community members stepping up to help.
In moments like these, communities often rally together, showcasing humanity’s resilience. As history has shown, tragic events can bring about significant change in safety regulations and workplace practices. It’s essential for industries to learn from this incident to prevent future disasters.
For those interested in supporting the families affected, you can find links to specific fundraising efforts here.
