Tragic Gas Leak at Pemex Plant in Deer Park, Texas
A devastating incident occurred at the Pemex plant in Deer Park, Texas, on October 11, 2024, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals and injuries to five others. The leak, identified as an acid gas release, was reported around 4:30 p.m. local time, prompting immediate emergency protocols from the company, Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex). Authorities initially advised residents in Deer Park and nearby Pasadena to stay indoors and secure their homes, but by 8:30 p.m., they confirmed that the situation posed no further risk to the community.
The Mexican Consulate has reached out to support the affected workers and coordinate with local authorities. Pemex is conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the leak and plans to resume operations at the facility, which has been a crucial part of the company’s refining system since its acquisition from Shell in 2021. The Deer Park plant processes an average of 270,000 barrels of oil daily, significantly contributing to Pemex's operations despite most of its output being sold in the United States.
Community Response and Safety Measures
In response to the leak, local officials have been actively monitoring the situation. Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez confirmed that emergency services were deployed to the scene, with multiple ambulances seen attending to the injured. Although the chemical leak was serious enough to warrant a shelter-in-place order, officials reassured the public that there was no ongoing threat to health or safety. The refinery’s operations were halted as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both workers and nearby residents.
Pemex's commitment to safety and transparency is evident as they navigate this crisis, aiming to restore normalcy at one of their most significant refining facilities. The incident raises concerns about industrial safety standards and the potential impact on local communities in Texas, a region heavily reliant on the petrochemical industry.
