When a refinery fire or explosion lights up the sky, the danger doesn’t end when the flames die out. As we saw with the recent Marathon refinery fire in El Paso, nearby residents were left in the dark – literally and figuratively – after plumes of fire and smoke poured from two stacks without warning. The air smelled of burnt oil, no alerts were issued, and residents struggled to reach anyone for answers.
Unfortunately, this type of industrial incident is far from rare. Refineries are inherently hazardous due to the flammable chemicals they process, and when safety systems fail or malfunctions occur, the consequences can be devastating for workers and surrounding communities.
At Kherkher Garcia, petrochemical injury attorneys understand the serious risks associated with refinery accidents. We help workers and residents seek justice, hold refineries accountable, and recover the compensation they deserve.
El Paso Marathon Fire Details
Residents living near the Marathon Refinery in El Paso are demanding answers and better communication after large plumes of fire and smoke were seen coming from the facility on July 8. Many reported the air smelled like burnt oil and expressed frustration that the refinery did not issue any alerts or provide a clear point of contact.
Community members are now calling on Marathon to hold a public meeting, establish a real-time alert system, provide a 24/7 contact line, release regular monitoring data, and install neighborhood air quality monitors specifically for carcinogens.
Marathon Refinery stated the flaring was caused by a power outage from a third-party provider and emphasized that flaring is a safety measure. The company claims no injuries occurred, air monitoring showed no off-site impacts, and it maintains a 24-hour contact number. However, local advocates stress that even if regulations weren’t violated, residents were still exposed to potentially harmful emissions and deserve timely information and protection.
The Dangers of Refinery Fires and Explosions
Refineries process crude oil into gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other products using high heat, pressure, and complex chemical reactions. These facilities store and transport large quantities of flammable substances, making them high-risk environments. Common causes of refinery fires and explosions include:
- Equipment failure
- Power outages or electrical faults
- Poor maintenance practices
- Human error
- Improper storage or handling of chemicals
- Blocked or malfunctioning pressure relief systems
- Corrosion or worn pipelines
When something goes wrong, fires can ignite rapidly and explosions can destroy equipment, buildings, and lives in an instant. Flares – used to burn off excess gas during emergency conditions – may help prevent worse outcomes, but they also release toxic chemicals into the air.
Even smaller incidents can emit hazardous fumes like benzene, sulfur dioxide, and other carcinogens, which pose serious health risks for anyone nearby.
How Refinery Fires and Explosions Affect Workers and Communities
Injuries to Workers: Refinery workers are especially vulnerable during a fire or explosion. Injuries may include:
- Severe burns
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Respiratory damage from inhaling toxic fumes
- Crush injuries from structural collapses
- PTSD or psychological trauma
In many cases, injured workers face long-term disabilities, loss of income, and overwhelming medical expenses.
Harm to Nearby Residents: People living near refineries may be exposed to dangerous air pollutants, especially when fires are not promptly reported or addressed. Symptoms can include:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Breathing difficulties
- Skin and eye irritation
- Long-term risks such as cancer or reproductive harm
Residents may also suffer emotional distress, property damage, or a reduced quality of life due to living near a hazardous facility.
Who Is Liable for Refinery Fires and Explosions?
Refineries are responsible for maintaining safe operations, not only for workers, but also for the surrounding community. When a refinery fails to follow safety protocols, maintain its equipment, or communicate emergency situations properly, it can be held liable for the resulting harm.
Potentially Liable Parties Include:
- Refinery Owners and Operators – for negligence, inadequate safety measures, or lack of emergency response.
- Contractors – if third-party service providers performed work that contributed to the incident.
- Utility Companies – if a power outage or electrical fault caused by the provider triggered the event.
- Manufacturers – if faulty equipment or components failed under normal use.
An experienced attorney can conduct a full investigation to determine the cause of the incident and identify all liable parties.
Similar Refinery Incidents in the U.S.
The Marathon Refinery fire is one of many serious incidents that have raised public concern. It is not the first Marathon incident to raise alarms; but other major oil and gas companies are also under fire:
- Philadelphia Energy Solutions (2019): A massive explosion caused by a failed pipe elbow released hydrofluoric acid and leveled parts of the refinery. The blast was felt miles away. Lawsuits in this refinery incident are ongoing.
- Valero Refinery, Texas City (2017): A fire at the refinery released sulfur dioxide and other pollutants, triggering shelter-in-place orders.
- BP Refinery, Texas City (2005): A massive explosion killed 15 workers and injured more than 180. The company later paid over $1.6 billion in settlements and fines.
These incidents highlight the dangers of inadequate safety procedures and the importance of corporate accountability.
How an Attorney Can Help Victims Protect Their Rights
Whether you are a refinery worker or a nearby resident, a refinery fire or explosion can change your life in an instant. Victims often face resistance from refinery owners, insurance companies, and corporate legal teams that prioritize profit over people.
At Kherkher Garcia, we advocate fiercely for our clients. Our attorneys can:
- Investigate the cause of the fire or explosion.
- Gather evidence such as safety records, inspection reports, and witness testimony.
- File personal injury or wrongful death claims.
- Demand compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Negotiate or litigate aggressively to hold negligent parties accountable.
We also represent community members who have been exposed to toxic emissions or forced to live under the constant threat of another industrial accident.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have a case if I wasn’t physically injured but was exposed to harmful smoke or fumes?
Yes. Exposure to toxic substances—even without visible injuries—can have serious long-term health effects. You may be entitled to compensation for medical testing, monitoring, emotional distress, and more.
Can I sue the refinery if I’m a worker and already receiving workers’ comp?
It depends. Workers’ compensation may limit your ability to sue your direct employer, but if a third party (like a contractor or equipment manufacturer) contributed to your injuries, you may be able to file a personal injury claim.
What kind of compensation can I recover?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future care costs, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded.
How long do I have to file a claim after a refinery incident?
Each state has its own statute of limitations, which is typically between one and three years from the date of injury or exposure. It’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
What if the refinery claims the incident didn’t violate any laws or cause harm?
Even if no formal violation occurred, you still have the right to pursue a claim if you experienced harm. Corporate compliance with minimum regulations doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t liable for negligence or damage caused by their operations.
Contact Kherkher Garcia for Help After a Refinery Fire or Explosion
Living or working near a refinery shouldn’t mean living in fear. When companies fail to protect their workers and neighbors, they must be held accountable.
If you or a loved one was affected by a refinery fire, explosion, or toxic exposure, contact Kherkher Garcia today. Our skilled legal team has decades of experience fighting major corporations and securing justice for victims of industrial negligence. We will listen to your story, investigate your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us now for a free, confidential consultation – 713-333-1030. You can also request more information by submitting our online contact form.
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