A small explosion took place at a Louisiana facility specializing in black powder production on Wednesday and is now the focus of an investigation.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries at Goex Industries LLC, and all personnel were promptly evacuated following the blast, which occurred around 7 a.m. Reports indicate that Goex is a subsidiary of Estes Energetics and is situated at Camp Minden, a training site for the Louisiana National Guard, approximately 27 miles (43 kilometers) east of Shreveport, near Minden.
The Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the incident, and the investigation is now being handled by the Louisiana State Police.
State police communicated that there is currently no indication that the public is in danger, and the situation has been contained within the facility’s boundaries. They have indicated that more information will be disclosed as it becomes available.
An inquiry was sent to Goex Industries on Wednesday for information regarding the cause of the explosion.
Known for producing black powder, or gunpowder, Goex specializes in manufacturing the explosive substance used in recreational activities, such as Civil War reenactments and flintlock firearms. It holds the distinction of being the sole manufacturer of this type of explosive material in the United States, as stated on its official website.