A devastating explosion rocked Pan Ascot Panhandle Milling in Dawn, Texas, in the early hours of Wednesday, July 23, 2025, resulting in the tragic loss of one life and injuries to several others. The victim, identified as 36-year-old Melissa Mungia, was found deceased amidst the debris after an extensive search by rescue teams.
The explosion occurred around 3:30 a.m. at the Panhandle Milling facility, located at the intersection of Farm to Market Road 809 and FM 1062. Residents in the area reported hearing a deafening boom, followed by the rapid response of emergency services, with fire trucks and personnel flooding the scene. The Dawn Volunteer Fire Department was the first to arrive, followed by units from Hereford Fire Department, Hereford EMS, and additional support from the Amarillo Fire Department, Deaf Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Dimmitt EMS, Texas Division of Emergency Management, BSA, and AMR.
Three individuals sustained critical burn injuries and were promptly transported to area hospitals for treatment. The search for Melissa Mungia concluded around 6 a.m., with her body extricated from the collapsed building by 7:30 a.m. The explosion caused significant structural damage, partially collapsing one building and scattering debris across the site.
The Texas Department of Transportation closed FM 809 between FM 1062 and FM 2587 to facilitate cleanup efforts and ensure public safety, urging residents to avoid the area. Panhandle Milling, a PHM Brands company, utilizes advanced technology at its Dawn flour mill and mix facility to process various grains.
Authorities are actively investigating the cause of the explosion, which remains undetermined. Cleanup operations continue, and officials have promised further updates as new information emerges. The Dawn Volunteer Fire Department expressed gratitude for the coordinated response and extended heartfelt condolences to those affected by the tragedy, stating, “To those hurting from this tragedy, our deepest and most sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.”
