Two workers died and 19 were treated after a toxic gas leak at a West Virginia refinery. A chemical reaction released hydrogen sulfide, prompting emergency response, hospitalizations, and a federal investigation.
Two dead, multiple injured after chemical leak in West Virginia facility. The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 AM local time on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Catalyst Refiners plant in Institute, just outside Charleston, West Virginia, where authorities said a violent chemical reaction during cleaning operations released toxic hydrogen sulfide gas.
Authorities reported that highly corrosive nitric acid reacted with a substance identified as M2000A, producing hydrogen sulfide gas. The release of this toxic gas led to severe exposure among workers at the site. According to local officials, two employees died as a result of the incident, while 19 individuals required medical care. One worker remained in critical condition. Additionally, seven emergency responders were evaluated at a hospital after possible exposure.
Earlier emergency dispatch reports indicated that multiple individuals were found unresponsive when crews arrived, with at least two receiving CPR on-site. Kanawha County Emergency Services Director C.W. Sigman said ambulances and buses were used to transport patients to nearby hospitals as responders worked to stabilize the situation.
Hydrogen sulfide, while naturally occurring in some environments, can pose serious health risks at high concentrations. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure can lead to unconsciousness and, in severe cases, death, as well as cardiovascular and respiratory complications such as pulmonary edema.
Local, state, and federal agencies responded to the scene, and an investigation is expected to be led by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Officials also confirmed that seven of those treated were emergency medical personnel.
A shelter-in-place order was initially issued for a one-mile radius around the facility, later reduced to the immediate vicinity before being fully lifted. Authorities continue to assess the incident and its impact on worker safety and surrounding communities.
