Officials in rural Texas have provided details about a fiery explosion that occurred at a chemical plant in Shepherd, Texas. The explosion, which led to a shelter-in-place order for residents within a one-mile radius, was triggered by a forklift incident, according to Geoff Harfield, the president of Sound Resource Solutions. While the exact cause of the blast is still under investigation, preliminary findings suggest that an employee noticed a container leaking with chemicals and attempted to use a forklift to lift it, resulting in ignition. Diesel, turpentine, and other chemicals may have been involved in the fire.
Authorities promptly issued a shelter-in-place order and instructed nearby residents and businesses to turn off HVAC systems. The initial five-mile radius was later reduced to one mile as officials assessed the situation, and the order was eventually lifted. One person sustained burns and was taken to a local medical center for treatment. Fortunately, all employees were accounted for, and the injured worker is expected to recover.
The explosion at Sound Resource Solutions, located along U.S. Highway 59 in Shepherd, caused billowing black smoke that could be seen in the surrounding area. Roads were closed, and a nearby private school was evacuated as first responders worked to control the fire. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality assured the public that air quality was being monitored and that no concerning levels had been detected.
The incident highlights the importance of ensuring proper safety measures in industrial facilities to prevent accidents and protect nearby communities. As the investigation continues, Sound Resource Solutions aims to address any necessary remediation work to minimize the impact on the community.
