Washington Mill Under Investigation Before Deadly Chemical Incident
The Longview Nippon Dynawave mill, where 11 workers died in a May chemical implosion, was under unrelated investigations by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries in the weeks prior to the incident.

Seattle Tacoma, WA, August 25, 2026 —
The Longview Nippon Dynawave mill, the site of a fatal chemical implosion in May that claimed the lives of 11 workers, was the subject of unrelated investigations by the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) in the weeks preceding the tragic incident.
Details regarding the specific nature of these investigations were not immediately available. The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries is responsible for ensuring workplace safety and health standards are met across the state. Their investigations typically involve site inspections and reviews of employer practices to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
The chemical implosion occurred in May, resulting in a significant loss of life. The cause of the implosion is under review, with state and federal agencies expected to release findings. The mill, operated by Nippon Dynawave Packaging, has been a significant employer in the Longview area.
Information about the outcomes of the pre-incident L&I investigations, including whether any violations were found or corrective actions were required, has not been publicly disclosed. The timeline for the release of official reports concerning the implosion itself is also pending.
Story summarized from the original created by Connor.Sarles@fox.com (Connor Sarles) on www.fox13seattle.com, see more information here.