HOUSTON, Texas – The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) is launching an investigation into the deadly chemical release at an industrial plant in Deer Park.
“This is a very serious incident that caused multiple fatalities and injuries and potentially put the surrounding community at risk,” CSB Chairperson Steve Owens said.
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The investigation comes after two contract workers died and 35 others were hospitalized when hydrogen sulfide was released at the PEMEX facility located at 5900 SH-225.
The highly toxic and flammable chemical was released around 4:40 p.m., triggering a shelter-in-place for the entire City of Deer Park and surrounding areas, including north Pasadena.
The order advised residents to stay indoors, turn off air conditioning, and close all windows and doors until the situation was contained.
On Friday, the City of Deer Park said their emergency alert system experienced technical issues, which left many residents unaware of critical information during the chemical release.
Residents were left frustrated by the conflicting alerts and lack of clear communication. Some reported receiving multiple messages, while others were left in the dark entirely.