Reports of an explosion at the KMCO plant in Crosby have prompted authorities to issue an order to shelter in place for residents in Crosby and all persons at Sheldon ISD. The shelter in place order was lifted at Sheldon ISD around 1:15 p.m., according to Harris County Pct. 3 Constable Sherman Eagleton.
The explosion killed one person; two others are injured, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
Dayton ISD, which borders the area where the explosion took place, is not under a shelter in place order at this time.
Travis Young, DISD spokesperson, said the Harris County Sheriff’s Office declared the shelter in place for areas within a one-mile radius of the fire. Dayton ISD will continue to monitor the situation, he added.
According to KMCO’s website, the company makes custom products such as glycol, antifreeze, brake fluid, cement grinding chemicals and oilfield products.
At around 1:30 p.m., KMCO president and CEO John C. Foley issued the following statement:
“There was an incident resulting in an ignition and fire today, [April 2, 2019], at KMCO, LLC, in Crosby, Texas. We are deeply saddened to confirm at this time that there have been injuries and one fatality. Those injured have been transported for medical treatment. Our hearts and prayers go out to the individuals involved, as well as our first responders, employees and our community.
“We have activated the company’s emergency response team and incident command center. We are working with local first responders to extinguish the fire. We will give another update as additional information becomes available.
“We apologize for any inconvenience to residents in the vicinity. The well-being of our people, neighbors and the environment remain our top priorities.”
A driver in Dayton captured this photo of the plume of smoke coming up from the KMCO plant in Crosby where an explosion was reported just before noon Tuesday. (Photo by Angel Rick Leal)