An above ground tank containing crude oil caught fire in Corpus Christi, Texas on Saturday December 5, 2020 while it was being cleaned in preparation for an inspection. At least seven people are believed to have been injured with many left in critical condition. Several workers were transported to specialized burn units in San Antonio to receive treatment for burn injuries.
The fire occurred at the Magellan Corpus Christi petroleum facility located on Poth Lane in Corpus Christi, Texas. Shortly after 10:00 am on Saturday December 5, 2020 officials received word of a fire and possible explosion in the tank farm where contractors were working to clean a tank in advance of an inspection. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Governor Abbot released the following statement regarding the tragedy:
The State of Texas is working closely with Magellan and Corpus Christi officials to aid in the emergency response efforts and to provide immediate help to those injured in the explosion. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is monitoring air quality in the area, and the Texas Division Of Emergency Management is on the ground to provide support. The Texas Department of Public Safety is also working to provide assistance to first responders on the ground. The state is ready to deploy additional resources to respond to this event and keep the community safe. Cecilia and I ask all Texans join us in prayer for those injured in this explosion, for our first responders, and for the safety of those in the area.
The fire and explosion continue the recent trend of deadly tragedies experienced along the Gulf Coast by plant and refinery workers.
If you or someone you love was injured in an industrial accident or refinery explosion, call the Houston law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner at 713-742-6016 or 1-888-229-5588 for a personal injury consultation.