Washington State paper mill chemical disaster kills 11
PUBLISHED Jun 13, 2026, 6:11 AM ET
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Authorities in Washington State report that 11 people have died following a chemical tank rupture at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging paper mill. Officials said Saturday that search and recovery teams have located the bodies of all nine individuals who had been missing after the accident, confirming the final death toll. The incident involved the implosion of a large tank holding "white liquor," a highly toxic mixture of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide used in paper pulp production. Emergency crews are working to contain contamination risks, while federal and state safety agencies investigate the tank’s structural failure. The facility remains shut down during ongoing operations.
By Faro B. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Earlier this week Large white liquor tank implodes
- Earlier this week Toxic chemicals rapidly released onsite
- Earlier this week Emergency teams secure mill perimeter
- Earlier this week Environmental monitoring begins near waterways
- Saturday Authorities confirm locating nine missing workers
- Saturday Death toll from incident rises to eleven
- Saturday Mill ordered to remain fully shut
- In coming weeks Federal and state investigations continue
News Intelligence
- This disaster impacts your safety and community. Chemical spills can contaminate water and air, affecting local health. Check your area's emergency plans. Know what to do if a similar incident happens. Share this info with your neighbors.
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