In the early hours of November 27, 2019, an explosion occurred at the TPC Group chemical plant in Port Neches. A number of structures at the facility caught fire, and plumes of black smoke could be seen in the air as far as 50 miles away from the site.

Later in the afternoon, a second explosion happened, resulting in a judge issuing a mandatory evacuation order for residents within 4 miles of the blasts. The order affected around 50,000 people living in Port Neches, Groves, Nederland, Central Gardens, Beauxart Gardens, and Port Arthur.

One of the resulting fires caused a tower to be propelled into the air. It crashed down near Port Neches-Groves High School. Fortunately, students were not present when the tower landed.

Residents said that the blast was loud and shook the city of Port Neches. Some reported that their windows and doors had been blown from their homes.

The explosions had officials concerned for the health and safety of residents. The TPC Group makes materials for petroleum and chemical factories. One of the substances burning in the fires is a known carcinogen called butadiene, which is used to make synthetic rubber, plastic, and nylon. If heated, this highly flammable gas could explode.

Additionally, some of the structures and equipment used at the plant contained asbestos, which has been linked to various cancers, including mesothelioma. However, officials reported that they did not measure elevated levels of the substance in the air.

Officials warned people not to touch the debris floating around and urged residents to call the TPC Group hotline for cleanup.

Around 200 employees work at the chemical plant, which includes both full-time staff and contractors. Officials reported that 30 people were onsite at the time of the initial explosion. The blast injured 2 employees and 1 contractor. They were treated at nearby hospitals and released.

Discuss Your Case with Our Firm Today!

Our team at The Daspit Law Firm is currently reviewing injury cases related to the Port Neches explosion. If you or a loved one was harmed, reach out to us today. Our Houston attorneys have extensive experience handling these types of matters and understand the devastation caused by plant and refinery accidents. We are committed to holding the companies and other entities financially liable for damages.  We will work hard toward recovering just compensation on your behalf.

Schedule your free initial case evaluation by calling us at (888) 273-1045 or contacting us online.