Chemical Leak at West Virginia Industrial Plant

Developing StoryLast updated MAY 11
SUMMARY

A chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026, resulted in two fatalities and 19 injuries, including seven ambulance workers, during a shutdown preparation. As of May 11, 2026: Investigations are ongoing into the incident, which involved a reaction between nitric acid and N2000A, producing poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas, with at least 30 people hospitalized. Governor Patrick Morrisey stated that state agencies are coordinating with county officials to investigate the incident at the plant, which was slated for closure in June. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area and has since been lifted.

Timeline

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May 2026 — 1 developments

  1. The chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant involved a reaction between nitric acid and N2000A, producing poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas.

    The chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant involved a reaction between nitric acid and N2000A, producing poisonous hydrogen sulfide gas. Investigations are ongoing, with a final report expected. One report indicates at least 30 people were hospitalized.

April 2026 — 3 developments

  1. The Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners plant, where a chemical leak killed two and injured 19, was in the process of shutting down and slated for closure in June.

    The Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners plant, where a chemical leak killed two and injured 19, was in the process of shutting down and slated for closure in June. One victim was in serious condition with respiratory symptoms, necessitating a large-scale decontamination operation. Governor Patrick Morrisey stated that state agencies, including the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, are coordinating with county officials to investigate the incident.

  2. A chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026, resulted in two fatalities and 19 injuries, including seven ambulance workers.

    A chemical leak at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026, resulted in two fatalities and 19 injuries, including seven ambulance workers. The incident occurred during a shutdown preparation, involving a reaction with nitric acid. A shelter-in-place order was issued for the surrounding area and has since been lifted.

  3. A significant chemical leak occurred at an industrial plant located in West Virginia, leading to a critical emergency situation.

    A significant chemical leak occurred at an industrial plant located in West Virginia, leading to a critical emergency situation. The incident tragically claimed the lives of two people and left at least 19 others with injuries. Emergency responders were immediately dispatched to the site to manage the unfolding crisis, provide medical assistance, and secure the area. The specific chemical involved and the exact cause of the leak are under investigation.