Deadly Implosion at Pulp and Paper Plant Causes Fatalities and 'Multiple Critical Injuries'

On Tuesday, May 26, multiple people were critically hurt or killed during an implosion at a chemical tank at a pulp and paper plant in Longview, Washington, authorities reported.

Local law officials and Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. released a statement together on social media on Tuesday stating that a tank implosion resulted in "multiple critical injuries" and deaths. The statement didn't report exactly how many people were critically injured or killed, according to the Associated Press.

Earlier in the day, the AP reported that multiple people suffered chemical burns and inhalation injuries.

When and How the Implosion Happened

According to the joint statement, the incident happened around 7:19 a.m. at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility. A tank with hazardous liquid ruptured, and that resulted in critical injuries and deaths. Around 40 firefighters and paramedics, as well as an area hazmat team, responded to the incident.

The AP reported that Longview Fire Department battalion chief Mike Gorsuch said the incident caused a "mass casualty scene" and that first responders were required to decontaminate patients before sending them to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver, Washington.

Longview is around 50 miles north of Portland, Oregon, and is positioned along the Columbia River.

According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. employs around 1,000 people and makes materials for tissues, printing paper, cups, plates, cartons and additional items.

According to authorities, there is no threat right now to the local community.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on May 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 12:51 PM.