ENVIRONMENT

Texas refinery gas leak kills two workers

PUBLISHED Jul 16, 2026, 10:23 PM ET

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A hydrogen sulfide gas leak at the Pemex refinery in Deer Park, Texas, killed two people and injured five workers on Monday evening, local authorities and the company confirmed. The leak began at about 4:40 p.m. local time in the refinery’s coker and hydrotreating units, prompting Pemex to halt operations in those areas. The incident was initially reported as a fire around 6:18 p.m. Deer Park and neighboring Pasadena issued a shelter-in-place order, advising residents to remain indoors and shut ventilation systems. Highway 225 was closed, though officials said no offsite community impact had been detected and an investigation is underway.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

4:40 p.m. local time Leak starts in refinery processing units
6:18 p.m. local time Incident first reported as fire
Shortly after incident Authorities order shelter-in-place advisory
Same evening Highway 225 closed near refinery
Same evening Pemex halts coker, hydrotreating operations
Same evening Two workers confirmed dead onsite
Same evening Five injured workers receiving medical treatment
Following hours Officials report no community impact detected

News Intelligence

This incident impacts your safety. If you live near a refinery, be aware of potential hazards. Know your community's emergency protocols. Check if your home has a good ventilation system. It's your first line of defense against gas leaks.