Chemical Tank Implosion at Washington State Paper Mill Leaves 8 Dead, 3 Missing

Central News Agency (Los Angeles, 29th) U.S. officials said today that the death toll from the chemical tank implosion at a paper mill in Washington State has risen to 8, with 3 people still missing.

According to AFP, the accident occurred on the 26th at Nippon Dynawave Packaging in Longview, Cowlitz County, Washington. The tank, with a total capacity of 900,000 gallons (approximately 3.4 million liters), contained a large amount of corrosive "white liquor."

"White liquor" is a highly alkaline solution composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, primarily used in pulp and paper manufacturing.

Longview Fire Chief Brad Hannig said at a press conference today, "We can confirm that 6 people have been recovered."

Authorities confirmed 2 deaths on the 27th, but the death toll has now risen to 8, with 3 others missing, raising fears that they may not have survived.

Hannig stated that rescue workers are still searching for the remaining victims in a dangerous environment.

Local officials emphasized that the accident did not contaminate local drinking water or air.