Explosion at weapons factory in US leaves two wounded, one missing

WORLD, July 04 (YPA) – An explosion at a defense weapons plant in Arkansas injured at least two people Wednesday and left another missing, Associated Press reported.

The agency reported quoting factory officials: “At least two people were injured and one person is missing following an incident involving ‘fireworks’ at a defense facility in Arkansas.”

According to the agency, the incident occurred in Camden, Arkansas, at the General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems company. Two victims were transported to the hospital, with the severity of their injuries not specified.

A company spokesperson stated that the explosion occurred approximately 86 miles (138 km) south of Little Rock. Initially described as a “fireworks-related incident” by the company, it was later confirmed to be an explosion.

The spokesperson added: “We are working with first responders and can confirm that the incident resulted in at least two injuries and one person missing. We are fully cooperating with authorities during their investigation.”

The statement did not provide details about the extent of the injuries. The state emergency management said it is monitoring the situation and prepared to assist, but did not provide further details.

General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company. The Camden plant houses more than 880,000 square feet of manufacturing and storage space, and it supports military programs such as the Hellfire and Javelin missiles and various mortar munitions, according to the company’s website.

@E.Y.M