March 23, 2023 The explosion shook buildings in Pasadena and sent a massive fireball into the air.
By Matt deGrood Source Houston Chronicle (TNS) Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Mar. 23—Wednesday’s explosion at the INEOS Phenol plant in Pasadena that injured one happened when a hose disconnected between a tank trailer and the facility, releasing flammable vapors, according to the Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office’s initial investigation.
Investigators with the office have ruled the explosion an accident, saying it was caused by the unintentional release of liquid petroleum gas from the trailer, officials said.
The explosion shook buildings in Pasadena and sent a massive fireball into the air over parts of east Harris County. A truck driver was taken to a local hospital in fair condition.
The explosion and ensuing fire engulfed the tank trailer and two other trailers at the facility, according to the fire marshal’s office.
Operations at the facility will continue without the use of the damaged trailers, officials said.