Valero Energy Corp. is responding to a fire in a unit at its Port Arthur refinery in Texas, the company said late Monday.
A fire broke out at a diesel hydrotreater, with the unit suffering severe damage, according to people familiar with the incident. The fire was near the plant's fluid catalytic cracker, and part of the refinery has been shut down, according to the people, who said a decision hasn't yet been made whether to shut the entire plant.
A few minor injuries were reported, according to people familiar. A Valero spokesperson said all personnel have been accounted for. Local officials have shut two nearby state highways as a precaution, the spokesperson said.
ALSO READ: New York Flight Collision: Air Canada Pilot, Co-Pilot Dead; Here's What We Know So Far
There were reports of a boom and smoke was seen rising from the plant about 90 miles (145 kilometers) east of Houston, ABC TV affiliate 12News reported.
The refinery can process 435,000 barrels of heavy sour crude a day, according to the company's website.
ALSO READ: Air Canada Express Plane Hits Ground Vehicle At New York LaGuardia, Flights Halted
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
