Delek US Holdings Inc. confirmed Friday morning that at least one person died due to an explosion and fire at its 60,000 bpd refinery in Tyler, Texas, Thursday afternoon.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family,” said Frank Simmons, manager of the Tyler Refinery.
“Our community has banded together during this time of tragic loss,” said Danny Thomas, a United Steel Workers union spokesperson and chairman of the refinery’s Workman’s Committee. “In the days and weeks ahead, we will be working to identify the cause and origin of the incident. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of all those involved.
At approximately 2:00 PM CT Thursday an explosion and related fire occurred in an area of the refinery occupied by the Saturates Gas Plant. The cause of the incident and the extent of the damage to the refinery are yet to be established. The company previously reported that at least six people received medical attention as a result of the incident.