KMCO Issues Statement on Crosby Plant Fire Investigation

Specialty chemicals manufacturer KMCO LLC released a statement on Wednesday that provided an update on the company’s investigation into a fire and explosion at its Crosby, TX chemical facility that resulted in a fatality and injuries. 

“While the company’s investigation is ongoing, eye-witnesses have described a sudden, acute failure in a piping component that caused a release of Isobutylene, which ignited minutes later,” stated KMCO. “The failure of this component on the morning of April the 2nd caused the release of flammable gases and resulting fire.”

KMCO’s release seemed to be aimed at dispelling media reports that a defect or a leak in an Isobutylene valve contributed to the blast and fire. 

“There is no evidence to support media speculation that a faulty or leaking Isobutylene valve led to the events on April 2,” the company said.  

A fire and explosion on April 2 at KMCO’s chemical plant in Crosby, TX left one person dead and several others with injuries, Powder & Bulk Solids reported. Homes, schools, and offices within a mile of the facility were ordered to shelter in place during the incident. 

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