At least one worker has died and nine others are missing after a large chemical tank collapsed at a paper mill in Washington state, authorities said, fearing the missing may not be found alive.

The incident occurred Tuesday at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. in Longview, where a massive tank containing nearly one million gallons of a highly corrosive substance suddenly imploded. Officials said there is little hope of rescuing those still unaccounted for.

Another nine people were injured in the accident, some critically. Victims suffered burns and breathing problems caused by exposure to the chemical.

Fire officials described the situation as a recovery operation rather than a rescue effort. Work was paused overnight due to safety concerns and was expected to resume Wednesday, focusing first on stabilizing the damaged tank before searching for the missing workers.

The tank still holds a large amount of “white liquor,” a dangerous chemical mixture used in paper production. Authorities warned that there is a risk of further leakage or collapse, which is why operations are being limited to daylight hours.

Officials said there is no immediate danger to the public.

The cause of the collapse remains unknown.

Families of workers gathered near the site seeking information, with some expressing frustration over a lack of communication. A vigil was held later in the evening, where community members mourned the victims.

The factory, located along the Columbia River, is a major employer in the area and plays a key role in the local economy. It produces materials used in paper products, packaging and other everyday items.

Emergency teams, including firefighters and hazardous materials units, responded quickly to the scene and transported the injured to nearby hospitals after decontamination.

Environmental officials said the chemical spilled into a drainage area, and a team has been sent to assess the impact.

Authorities have promised a full investigation into the incident. US officials said the community deserves clear answers about what caused the accident.

Records show the company had been cited for several minor safety violations in recent years, though officials said those issues were not directly linked to Tuesday’s disaster.