Fremont, NE – Recovery efforts continue in Dodge County following Monday’s explosion at Horizon Biofuels, where two young girls remain unaccounted for nearly 48 hours after the blast.
According to the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office, the July 29th industrial explosion caused widespread damage to property and services, overwhelming local emergency capabilities. A disaster declaration has been issued by the Dodge County Board of Supervisors, prompting a formal request for state-level assistance.
Authorities confirmed that the two missing individuals are juvenile females who were reportedly waiting nearby for a medical appointment when the explosion occurred. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect over the impacted area near 950 S Union, with drone units actively supporting the search and recovery efforts.
Fremont Rural Fire Department Chief Nielsen reported that fire suppression continues under hazardous conditions. “Due to the structural instability caused by the explosion and the fire’s deep-seated hot spots, operations remain complex and hazardous,” he stated. Crews from multiple agencies are expected to remain at the scene for the foreseeable future.
Roughly 24 hours after the blast, the body of one adult male was recovered by NE-TF1 search teams. An autopsy has been ordered by the Dodge County Attorney, while the search continues for the two girls.
Residents are urged to avoid the area and allow emergency crews to safely carry out operations. No further details on the identities of the missing juveniles have been released.
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