New Delhi, Oct. 11 -- A massive blast at an explosives factory in Tennessee has left at least 18 people missing and feared dead, prompting authorities to begin a frantic search for the survivors or dead bodies. Amid mangled metal and charred cars, locating the missing has turned into a daunting task.

The explosives factory is "gone," Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said of the blast site at Accurate Energetic Systems, adding, "There's nothing to describe," - almost holding back tears.

The authorities have not yet shared the exact cause of the explosion at the explosives factory. "Four or five people" have been taken to hospital and some are receiving treatment for minor injuries.

The ammunition factory has damaged and its operator...