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

Confirmation of Victims Recovered

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 had been recovered at the scene. The sheriff's office released a statement on Wednesday night confirming that 32-year-old Dylan D. Danielson from Columbus, Neb., was among those killed in the explosion. His body was found around noon on Wednesday, approximately 24 hours after the blast.

An autopsy has been ordered by the Dodge County Attorney to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have not yet released the names of the two girls whose bodies were located during the ongoing recovery efforts. In a statement, the sheriff's office expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized that the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.

Disaster Declaration and Investigation

The Dodge County Board of Supervisors declared a disaster on Wednesday afternoon, formally requesting state aid for the affected area. The investigation into the cause of the explosion is already underway. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is working alongside local law enforcement to determine the circumstances that led to the blast. A spokesperson for the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) stated that the agency is also investigating the incident but will not provide details until the six-month legal deadline for the investigation has passed.

In addition, four personnel from the Nebraska Fire Marshal’s office are at the site, collaborating with other agencies to confirm the cause of the explosion. Interim State Fire Marshal Doug Hohein said his office will not comment on the investigation until they identify the origin of the incident.

Shift to Recovery Efforts

Mayor Joey Spellerberg addressed the media on Wednesday morning, stating that firefighters had worked through the night to extinguish the fire that remained after the explosion. He noted that the precipitation from Tuesday night did not hinder their efforts. According to the mayor, three people— one man and two girls under the age of 12—were present during the explosion.

Extended family members who spoke with First Alert 6 on Tuesday confirmed that the missing individuals were a father and his two daughters. Mayor Spellerberg explained that the children were at the facility waiting for the man, an employee at the plant, to finish work so they could go to a doctor’s appointment. He indicated that the situation has shifted from rescue to recovery, as the missing individuals are now believed to be deceased.

Delayering Process and Challenges

Emergency crews are using heavy equipment to initiate a “delayering” process to locate the victims. This involves removing debris layer by layer to search for remains. Fremont Fire Chief Todd Bernt mentioned that crews were unable to access the building due to collapsed steel. Carl Nielsen, chief of the Fremont Rural Volunteer Fire Department, described the process as slow and complex, noting that crews must simultaneously suppress fires while searching for victims.

MJ Lierman of NE-TF1 explained that the delayering process is similar to what was used in Texas after recent floods. As of noon on Wednesday, workers were still clearing outer areas of the debris field, moving inward from top to bottom. Structural instability caused by the explosion and fire has made operations hazardous, according to the sheriff’s office.

Continued Support and Community Response

Traffic near the explosion site has been restricted, with Cloverly Road between Main Street and Platte Avenue closed, along with Schneider Street. These closures are expected to remain in place until further notice. Nearby businesses in the industrial area have also called off work for the day.

Drone teams are still active in the area, and a temporary flight restriction around the Horizon Biofuels plant is expected to last for the next 48 hours. Ashley Engler, program manager of NE-TF1, said the task force is coordinating efforts between local and state agencies to systematically remove debris and recover the victims’ bodies. Structural engineers are assisting with safe access to the site.

Commitment to the Community

In a statement, Governor Pete Ricketts expressed appreciation for the numerous agencies working at the scene. He extended his thoughts and prayers to the families and friends of those affected by the tragedy. The mayor acknowledged the support from several area fire departments, including Nickerson, North Bend, Hooper, Arlington, Waterloo, Valley, Cedar Bluffs, and Scribner, which have been assisting in the firefighting efforts.

The governor’s office confirmed that 14 NE-TF1 personnel were activated to assist with structural issues and a K-9 team. Fremont officials have also been addressing misinformation, clarifying that the city is not asking residents to reduce or discontinue water use.

Community Support and Supplies

Fremont Rural Volunteer Fire Department reported that Hy-Vee, Jimmy John’s, and McDonald’s had donated food on Tuesday. They later announced that they now have all the supplies and assistance they need. A local church has also been collecting water and other drink donations. Officials thanked the public for their continued support and generosity, emphasizing that they now have sufficient resources.