ENVIRONMENT

Texas refinery gas leak kills two workers

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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.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

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

Why This Matters to You

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.

The Bottom Line

Two lives were lost, and five people injured in this tragic refinery incident. Officials are investigating, but no community impact has been detected yet. It's a stark reminder of the risks associated with industrial operations. Worth forwarding if you know someone living near a refinery.