One person is dead and three others are recovering from burn injuries following a powerful explosion early Wednesday morning at the Panhandle Milling facility in Dawn, Texas.
The explosion occurred around 3:30 a.m. in the 4800 block of FM 809, prompting an immediate emergency response from the Hereford Fire Department and Hereford EMS. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that one of the plant's buildings had partially collapsed due to the blast.
Authorities quickly called for additional assistance, mobilizing a wide range of emergency personnel from multiple agencies including the Hereford Police Department, Deaf Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Dawn Fire Department, Dimmitt EMS, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), BSA Health System, American Medical Response (AMR), and the Amarillo Fire Department.
Three individuals suffering from burn injuries were transported to area hospitals. Their conditions have not yet been released.
The situation escalated when it became clear that a fourth person was unaccounted for. Search and rescue operations intensified, and at approximately 6:00 a.m., the body of the missing individual was located within the rubble of the collapsed structure. The Amarillo Fire Department completed the extrication of the deceased victim around 7:30 a.m.
Authorities have not yet released the names of the victims pending notification of their families.
The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Officials from the Fire Marshal's office and other relevant agencies are expected to remain on-site throughout the day to assess the scene and gather evidence.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has closed FM 809 from FM 1062 to FM 2587 due to debris and ongoing emergency activity. Drivers are urged to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
Panhandle Milling, a facility that processes grain and other agricultural products, plays a key role in the local economy. This incident has raised safety concerns among residents and workers alike. Company officials have not yet released a public statement.
