COFIELD — Hertford County officials and Perdue Farms confirmed Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, that the worker who had been unaccounted for after a recent explosion and collapse at the Perdue feed mill has died.
The body was recovered Sunday, Hertford County said in a news release. It will be taken to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for formal identification and an official determination of cause of death.
The explosion occurred about 3 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at the facility on Perdue Road in Cofield. The blast caused an eight-story grain tower to collapse, prompting a multi-agency emergency response.
In a statement posted Feb. 22 on the company’s website, Perdue Farms said it was “deeply saddened” to confirm the death of the associate who had been unaccounted for following the incident.
Perdue said four associates were at the feed mill at the time of the explosion. Of the others, one was airlifted to a regional medical facility with injuries, one was treated and released, and one sustained no injuries. Out of respect for privacy, the company did not provide additional details about their conditions.
The company also said the condition of the facility presents “significant structural hazards,” requiring emergency response crews to move carefully and bring in specialized equipment during the search and recovery efforts. Perdue said it is cooperating fully with local authorities and supporting emergency personnel.
North Carolina Emergency Management requested the deployment of NC Task Force 10, a Type IV Urban Search and Rescue team made up of members from Greenville Fire/Rescue and New Bern Fire/Rescue, to assist in search operations and scene stabilization. The team also provided logistical support.
Hertford County said the response required multiple days of fire suppression, extensive search operations, and structural stabilization under hazardous conditions. All local volunteer fire departments have since cleared the scene.
County officials expressed appreciation for the work of volunteers, partner agencies, and community groups that supported crews with meals and other assistance during the extended operation.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. Officials have asked the public to refrain from speculation as the inquiry continues.
Let us know what you think by leaving a comment. Comments are subject to approval.