Two Workers Dead, Dozens Hurt after Chemical Leak at Deer Park, TX, Plant
Houston Chronicle
(TNS)
Oct. 10—UPDATE: 10/11/2024 6:46 a.m.
Another worker has died and dozens of others were added to the injury list after Thursday night's deadly leak, according to the Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
Gonzalez said some workers were working on a flange when the gas suddenly started leaking. Gonzalez said two workers died and as many as 35 others were injured.
Pemex said flaring may occur as a result of the gas leak.
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UPDATE: 9:34 p.m. CT
Deer Park officials have lifted the shelter-in-place order for local residents, stating toxicology experts and Harris County Hazmat have reported no hazardous materials in the community following Thursday's deadly leak at a Pemex chemical plant.
"At this time, Harris County Pollution Control, Harris County Hazmat, and CTEH are reporting no hazardous chemicals within the community," wrote Deer Park Office of Emergency Management officials. " Deer Park has lifted the Shelter-in-Place. We are aware of the odor but there is no hazard to the community. Thank you for your patience."
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One person died Thursday and several others were injured after hydrogen sulfide was released from the Pemex facility in Deer Park, according to city officials.
Deer Park Office of Emergency Management said the incident was isolated to the Pemex plant and there was no threat to the community.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said at least one person died, another person was taken to an area hospital via Life Flight and several others were injured. It is unclear if those who were injured worked at the plant.
The City of Deer Park issued a shelter-in-place for all residents due to the chemical release. Officials asked all residents to go inside, close all windows and doors turn off the air conditioner and wait for the all-clear to be issued. The City of Pasadena also issued a shelter-in-place.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo confirmed the one fatality and multiple injuries, stating "my heart goes out to their families and loved ones."
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