DEER PARK, TX – A somber scene unfolded in Deer Park as a hazardous gas leak at the Pemex oil refinery resulted in the deaths of two workers and left several others injured. The incident, which released hydrogen sulfide gas, has prompted a significant response from local authorities and emergency personnel.
The leak was reported to have started during maintenance work on a flange at the refinery located along State Highway 225. The toxic gas, known for its pungent rotten egg smell, posed immediate risks, complicating rescue efforts. As of now, the bodies of the deceased remain on-site as officials wait for the gas levels to diminish before entering the affected area.
Local officials, including Deer Park’s mayor, have assured the community that there is no danger beyond the refinery grounds. The precautionary shelter-in-place orders issued for Deer Park and Pasadena have been lifted after air quality assessments confirmed no harmful chemical levels in the atmosphere.
The situation drew a large-scale response from law enforcement and emergency services, highlighting the seriousness of the leak. Initial emergency alerts were delayed, with responders arriving after the gas had already begun to spread.
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez of Harris County provided details on the incident during a press briefing, noting that around 35 employees were impacted by the leak. Many received immediate treatment on-site, and contrary to earlier reports, no one was airlifted to a hospital.
Pemex has addressed the incident, noting that flaring operations are in place to manage the gas release as they work to safely access the affected area. The company, alongside county officials, is committed to continuous air quality monitoring to ensure public safety.
Hydrogen sulfide, a byproduct of petroleum refining, is highly toxic and flammable, even in low concentrations. OSHA has recognized it as a leading cause of workplace gas inhalation fatalities, underscoring the critical nature of the situation.
As investigations proceed, the focus is on determining the exact cause of the leak and implementing measures to prevent future incidents. This story is still developing, with further updates expected as more information emerges.