General Dynamics reports two injuries, missing person in ‘energetic incident’ at Camden facility
CAMDEN, Ark. – Two people were hurt and a third person is missing at the General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems facility in Camden Wednesday morning.
A spokesperson released a statement describing the 8:15 a.m. incident as an “energetic incident” involving pyrotechnics. A spokesperson later clarified with KARK 4 News that the incident was an explosion.
The spokesperson said the company is working with first responders at the scene. They added that the company will fully cooperate with any authorities as they conduct an investigation into the incident.
#UPDATE We just arrived to the exterior gate at @GD_OTS in Ouachita County where 2 were injured, 1 is missing following an 8:15 AM explosion. Not much can be seen from outside. No entry and news is being asked to stay off the property. @KARK4News: https://t.co/FWnplgD05q pic.twitter.com/xqiS2Qm1aG
— Neale Zeringue (@NealeZeringue) July 3, 2024
A representative with Ouachita County Medical Center told KARK 4 News that one of the injured victims was stable after being treated by emergency room staff.
The other victim was taken by ambulance to the Camden Municipal Airport, where they were med-flighted to an out-of-state medical facility.
Officials with the Ouachita County Sheriff’s Office & the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management said no call for aid has been requested in connection to this incident.
#Update According to Ouachita County Medical Center, one person from the General Dynamics explosion was treated in their emergency room and is stable. One other person was taken by one of their ambulances to Camden Municipal Airport and medflighted to an out of state facility. No… pic.twitter.com/TBwNYXfzZk
— Neale Zeringue (@NealeZeringue) July 3, 2024
According to the company, the Camden operation is an 880,000-square foot manufacturing and storage space serving as General Dynamics’ explosive load, assemble and pack facility.
Multiple types of ordnance for the United States military are produced and stored there, including the Hydra-70 2.75 inch rocket, Hellfire and Javelin missiles, the Modular Artillery Charge System and various mortar munitions.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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