Full Breakdown
Chemical Emergency at Catalyst Refiners Plant in West Virginia
4/23/2026, 8:22:40 PM
Incident Overview
On April 22, 2026, a chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute, West Virginia, resulted in the deaths of two employees and left at least 21 others requiring medical attention. The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. while workers were engaged in cleaning and decontaminating the facility as part of a shutdown process. Preliminary reports suggest that a chemical reaction involving nitric acid and M2000A produced toxic hydrogen sulfide fumes, leading to the emergency.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
Emergency responders were dispatched shortly after the incident was reported. The Kanawha County Emergency Operations Center was activated at 9:46 a.m., and a shelter-in-place order was issued for a one-mile radius around the plant, affecting nearby communities, including West Virginia State University. By 10:00 a.m., a wireless emergency alert was sent to residents, and roads in the vicinity were closed as a precaution.
Dr. Tom Takubo from Thomas Memorial Hospital reported that approximately 30 to 45 individuals were initially exposed to the fumes, with symptoms ranging from respiratory distress to skin irritation. Of those treated, 12 were admitted to the hospital, including one in critical condition. Seven of the affected individuals were first responders who were exposed while assisting at the scene.
Official Statements
Ames Goldsmith Corporation, the parent company of Catalyst Refiners, expressed deep sorrow over the incident. President Frank Barber stated, “This is an unfathomably difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues and their families.” The company is cooperating with local, state, and federal agencies to investigate the cause of the leak.
Kanawha County Commission President Ben Salango noted that the incident highlights the dangers associated with chemical plant operations, particularly during shutdowns. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations to determine the exact circumstances leading to the chemical reaction.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey assured the public that state agencies are working closely with local officials to manage the situation. He stated, “Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens,” and confirmed that all necessary resources are being deployed to contain the incident.
Criticism and Concerns
Critics have raised concerns about the safety protocols in place at the Catalyst Refiners plant, particularly regarding the handling of hazardous materials during shutdown procedures. Emergency Management Director C.W. Sigman remarked on the inherent risks during the start-up and shutdown phases of chemical operations, indicating that these are the most dangerous times for such facilities.
What's Next
Investigations into the incident are ongoing, with federal authorities, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), involved in assessing the events that led to the chemical release. The community is advised to follow safety guidance issued by local authorities as the situation develops.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is an unfathomably difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues and their families,” — Frank Barber, President, Ames Goldsmith Corporation
- “Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens,” — Patrick Morrisey, Governor of West Virginia
- “Starting or ending a chemical reaction are the most dangerous times,” — C.W. Sigman, Emergency Management Director, Kanawha County Commission
This incident underscores the critical importance of safety measures in chemical manufacturing and the need for ongoing vigilance in emergency preparedness.
