Madison Meeks

Editor-in-Chief

mvm7037@psu.edu

SHEPHERD, TEXAS – A large chemical plant fire that was the result of an explosion has caused black smoke to fall into the sky. 

Wednesday, November 8, 2023, was when the chemical fire unfolded. The explosion and fire took place at Sound Resource Solutions, a plant that makes solvents for glue and paint remover. The president of the company, Geoff Harfield, has stated that only one employee was injured and is being treated for only minor burns. 

Sound Resource Solution has been a part of the Shepherd community since 2013. According to NBC News, the company employs about 40 people, and 39 of them are at home safe. 

The fire at the plant caused the evacuation of a private school, and an issue to shelter in place within five miles of the chemical plant was issued but was later changed to only one mile. 

The explosion has caused Highway 59 to close, and people are urged to take an alternative route to avoid the area.