A powerful explosion at the Accurate Energetic Systems plant in rural Tennessee killed 16 people and left no survivors, authorities said.

The blast, which was felt for miles, reduced the military explosives facility to twisted metal and ash as investigators searched the wreckage for clues to the cause.

Sheriff Chris Davis described the scene as heartbreaking, calling for prayers for the victims’ families, while local churches held vigils for the tight-knit community.

Officials have deployed a rapid DNA team to help identify the remains and warned that unstable explosive material has made recovery efforts dangerous and slow, NPR has reported.

Federal investigators from the ATF are assisting, but it could take weeks or months to determine whether foul play was involved.