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Steve Kherkher - June 2, 2026
A devastating Staten Island shipyard explosion on May 22, 2026 left one worker dead, dozens of first responders injured, and an entire community searching for answers.
Officials have confirmed that one worker was killed and at least one other worker was injured. More than 30 first responders were also hurt, with some reportedly suffering serious blast-related injuries. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.
For victims and families affected by catastrophic industrial incidents, tragedies like this raise difficult questions: What caused the explosion? Could it have been prevented? And who may ultimately be held responsible?
If your family is asking any of these questions, Kherkher Garcia can help.
According to reports, firefighters responded to a shipyard fire on Richmond Terrace after receiving reports that workers were trapped inside a structure near the docks. While emergency crews were conducting rescue operations, a second explosion occurred, injuring numerous first responders who were already inside the building rushing to save lives.
According to officials, the situation developed quickly. Crews initially responded to reports of a fire and workers trapped inside a structure near the waterfront. The cause of the explosion remains unknown and multiple agencies are conducting investigations. Authorities have emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages and that no official cause has been determined.
Industrial explosions are among the most destructive incidents that can occur. Facilities like shipyards, refineries, chemical plants, manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and energy operations often contain combustible materials, pressurized systems, fuel sources, and confined workspaces that can dramatically increase the severity of an explosion.
In many cases, workers and first responders have only seconds, if any warning at all, before a catastrophic event occurs. For victims that survive, the injuries often cause lifelong physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
For more than three decades, Kherkher Garcia has represented victims and families affected by some of the most serious industrial accidents in the United States. Our attorneys have handled litigation involving:
Our team understands the complex engineering, safety, and operational issues that frequently arise in catastrophic injury investigations. We work alongside leading experts to uncover what happened and help families pursue accountability when preventable tragedies occur.
Kherkher Garcia is currently assisting clients in cases involving:
In addition to our active cases, we have represented hundreds of victims and families nationwide. We have secured life-changing verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients, including:
While every incident is unique, one reality remains constant: victims and families deserve answers and justice. You can view more of our client stories on our Testimonials page.
When a worker loses his or her life in a catastrophic explosion, surviving family members are often left facing enormous emotional and financial burdens. Depending on the circumstances, investigations may reveal legal claims involving:
While no legal action can undo the tragedies caused by incidents like the Staten Island shipyard explosion, accountability can help provide answers and financial security for families whose lives have been forever changed.
Industrial explosions may involve combustible gases, chemical reactions, equipment failures, pressurized systems, electrical malfunctions, or ignition of flammable materials.
Yes. Blast waves from an explosion can cause traumatic brain injuries, lung damage, internal bleeding, hearing loss, and other serious injuries.
Investigations may involve local fire departments, OSHA, the Chemical Safety Board (CSB), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), or other state and federal agencies.
The ability to file a wrongful death claim depends on the facts uncovered during an investigation.
After a catastrophic incident, it is beneficial to seek legal guidance as soon as possible.
Catastrophic explosions can change lives in an instant. Victims and families are often left dealing with grief, serious injuries, financial uncertainty, and unanswered questions.
At Kherkher Garcia, we have spent decades helping individuals and families affected by industrial disasters, workplace explosions, fires, and other catastrophic incidents. We understand the challenges these cases present, and we are committed to helping families pursue the answers and accountability they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an explosion, industrial fire, or gas-related incident, contact Kherkher Garcia for a free consultation. You can also call us at 713-333-1030. Our team is ready to listen, investigate, and help you understand your options.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorneys Steve Kherkher and Jesus Garcia Jr., who have more than 50 years of combined legal experience championing the rights of those who have experienced catastrophic injury due to negligence.
Connect with a Kherkher Garcia trial lawyer today to pursue maximum compensation for your injury.
