Two girls and one employee killed after explosion at Nebraska biofuels plant
A powerful explosion on July 29 at the Horizon Biofuels facility in Fremont, Nebraska, killed two girls under 12 and 32-year-old employee Dylan D. Danielson. Officials say the likely cause was a wood-dust ignition in the plant’s tall elevator tower. Debris and an unstable structure delayed recovery for over 24 hours; the three victims were eventually recovered. Investigations are ongoing.
Fremont, Nebraska—July 29, 2025 —A destructive blast struck Horizon Biofuels plant just before noon, destroying part of the facility and igniting a large fire. The plant produces wood pellets and animal bedding, storing significant wood waste and alcohol-based materials—potential factors in the explosion. Debris and heavy smoke made search operations impossible for more than 24 hours Facebook+14AP News+14JC Post+14.
Victims confirmed:
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Dylan D. Danielson, a 32-year-old employee of the plant from Columbus, Nebraska
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Two young girls, believed to be under 12, waiting for Danielson before a doctor’s appointment KETV+5AP News+5CBS News+5
⚠️ Rescue and Recovery
Emergency crews faced “heavy smoke and a lot of flames” and were unable to safely access the structure due to mangled steel and structural collapse. The fire persisted despite rain into the following day. Recovery efforts resumed cautiously with heavy equipment, and all three victims were recovered by late Wednesday The Sun+6AP News+6MyJoyOnline+6.
???? Probable Cause & Structural Risk
Officials suspect the explosion stemmed from accumulated wood dust in the facility’s elevator tower—a recognized hazard in wood-processing operations. The plant had previously experienced a fire in 2014 that damaged its electrical system. The top of the tower was torn away, exposing a reinforced concrete core amid twisted metal siding CBS News+8AP News+8JC Post+8.
???? Community Reactions & Safety Concerns
Local residents reported their houses shook from the impact. Mayor Joey Spellerberg and Fire Chief Todd Bernt expressed sorrow and underscored the community's safety concerns. At least nine other agencies—including state patrol and technical rescue teams—joined the response. Officials emphasized the need for caution, noting the plant may be at risk of full collapse further hindering recovery The Sun+10AP News+10JC Post+10.
❗ Broader Implications
This tragedy underscores the serious risks of wood dust buildup in industrial settings. Experts warn that without sufficient dust control, ventilation, and routine cleaning, such facilities remain vulnerable to similar disasters. Regulatory and safety reviews are expected in the wake of these fatalities and structural damage.
✅ Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Horizon Biofuels plant, Fremont, Nebraska |
| Date | July 29, 2025 |
| Victims | An adult employee and two girls (<12) |
| Likely cause | Wood dust explosion in elevator tower |
| Response challenges | Structural instability, fire, debris |
| Casualties recovered | July 30 — after over 24 hours |
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