Fremont Blast: Victim Identified, Two Girls Found at Biofuels Plant

Confirmation of Victims and Ongoing Recovery Efforts

A day after a devastating explosion at Horizon Biofuels, the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the bodies of three individuals who were missing following Tuesday’s incident have been recovered at the scene. The sheriff's office released a statement on Wednesday night confirming the death of 32-year-old Dylan D. Danielson from Columbus, Neb., whose body was found around noon on Wednesday—approximately 24 hours after the explosion. An autopsy has been ordered by the Dodge County Attorney to determine the cause of death.

Authorities have not yet released the names of the two girls whose bodies were located during ongoing recovery efforts. In a statement, the sheriff's office expressed its deepest condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized that the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Fire Still Burning and Disaster Declaration

Despite the recovery efforts, crews are still working late into Wednesday to fully extinguish the fire at the site. A spokesperson for the sheriff's office confirmed that hot spots remain, with active flames continuing to burn. The Dodge County Board of Supervisors declared a disaster on Wednesday afternoon, formally requesting state aid to support the response and recovery efforts.

An investigation into the cause of the explosion is already underway. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is collaborating with local law enforcement to determine the circumstances that led to the blast. Additionally, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is conducting its own investigation, though it has not provided any public comments at this time. According to OSHA guidelines, the investigation must be completed within six months.

Shift in Focus: From Rescue to Recovery

Mayor Joey Spellerberg addressed the media on Wednesday morning, stating that firefighters had worked through the night to contain the fire. He confirmed that three individuals—two girls under the age of 12 and one man—were present during the explosion. The mayor also noted that the children were waiting for their father, an employee at the plant, for a doctor’s appointment when the incident occurred.

The focus of the operation has now shifted from rescue to recovery. Nebraska Task Force 1, along with cooperating fire agencies, assessed the structure and determined that further rescue attempts were no longer viable. The mayor stated that the names of the victims would not be released at this time out of respect for the family.

Delayering Process Begins

Emergency crews are using heavy equipment to initiate a “delayering” process, which involves removing debris layer by layer to locate the victims. This method was previously used in the aftermath of recent floods in Texas. As of midday on Wednesday, workers were clearing outer areas of the debris field, moving inward from top to bottom. However, the structural instability caused by the explosion and the presence of deep-seated hot spots continue to complicate operations.

The sheriff’s office described the situation as complex and hazardous, emphasizing the need for caution. Road closures remain in place near the site, including Cloverly Road between Main Street and Platte Avenue, and Schneider Street. These restrictions are expected to stay in effect until further notice.

Continued Support and Coordination

Ashley Engler, program manager for NE-TF1, explained that the task force is coordinating efforts between local and state agencies to systematically remove debris. Structural engineers are also assisting in gaining safe access to the site. The lightweight steel warehouse structure combined with the concrete elevator has made the building particularly difficult to navigate due to its instability.

Governor Pete Ricketts expressed his appreciation for the numerous agencies working at the scene. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the families affected by the tragedy. The Fremont Rural Volunteer Fire Department acknowledged the support of several area fire departments, including those from Nickerson, North Bend, Hooper, Arlington, Waterloo, Valley, Cedar Bluffs, and Scribner.

Community Response and Supplies

Local businesses and residents have shown strong support for the first responders. Hy-Vee, Jimmy John’s, and McDonald’s donated food on Tuesday, while a local church collected water and other drink donations. Although the fire department initially asked for more supplies, they later confirmed that they now have everything they need.

The sheriff’s office also addressed concerns about misinformation, clarifying that the city was not asking residents to reduce or discontinue water use. Officials have been in contact with the Nebraska Fire Marshall, the governor’s office, and the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency to coordinate the response.

Company Background and Impact

Horizon Biofuels, according to the Nebraska Manufacturing Extension Partnership website, employs 10 people. The company, known as Elkhorn Valley Animal Bedding, produces wood pellets and animal bedding from waste materials. It is one of three commercial pellet plants in the state, with the capacity to produce 20,000 short tons of wood pellets annually.

As the recovery continues, the community remains united in support of the families affected by the tragedy. First responders have thanked the public for their generosity and continued support throughout the challenging days ahead.