A source at Plant Bowen has confirmed there was a large-scale explosion at the facility. The cause remains unknown but the source says the explosion took place on the tripper floor, which is where coal enters the building from the outside.

There are no injury reports at this time. Bartow County Coroner Joel Guyton has not received information about any deaths at Plant Bowen resulting from the explosion to this point.

The Bartow County Sheriff's Department has issued a statement asking all residents to avoid the area as security is not allowing unauthorized personnel near the facility. Covered Bridge Road/Plant Bowen and area roads are CLOSED until further notice.