First victim of Washington chemical tank implosion revealed — as nine others remain missing
The first victim of a chemical tank implosion in Washington state has been identified as Gilbert Bernal. He was killed when a 900,000-gallon vat of a chemical mixture known as 'white liquor' collapsed. Nine others remain missing or injured following the incident.
- ▪Gilbert Bernal was confirmed as the first victim of the chemical tank implosion.
- ▪The explosion occurred at a paper mill in Washington state.
- ▪A GoFundMe has been set up to assist Bernal's family with funeral expenses.
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Metro breaking First victim of Washington chemical tank implosion revealed — as nine others remain missing By Kevin Barr Published May 27, 2026, 11:45 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google The first victim in the Washington state paper mill explosion has been identified. Gilbert Bernal was killed when the 900,000 gallon vat of a chemical mixture called “white liquor” imploded, his family told ABC News. Bernal is one of several people injured, missing or killed after the implosion. Gilbert Bernal was killed when the 900,000 gallon vat of a chemical mixture called “white liquor” imploded, his family told ABC News.
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