Valero refinery explosion: Sheriff gives update on cause; new details of Port Arthur explosion emerge

But those claims were dismissed by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, which had earlier confirmed the fire was caused by a heater. Now, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Donta Miller has confirmed that they are not investigating the explosion as an intentional act.

Asked if any foul play was involved at the refinery on Monday, Miller said: “No, we’re not looking into that.” explodeAccording to Reuters.

The explosion occurred at about 7:22 p.m. local time and sent thick smoke into the sky, prompting residents in western Port Arthur to issue a shelter-in-place order. There were no casualties and all personnel were rescued.

Also read: Valero provides update after explosion at refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, “as a precaution…”

Reuters quoted sources as saying that soon after explodeValero Energy officials later shut down the refinery. The shutoff prevents hydrogen or hydrocarbons from further fueling the fire. The fire burned throughout Monday and was eventually extinguished early Tuesday morning.

Also read: Valero refinery explosion: IRGC’s ‘strategic shift’ sparks debate in Port Arthur incident

Jefferson County Judge Jeff Blahnik, who lifted the shelter-in-place order on Monday, also provided an update on air quality.

“Air monitoring conducted by Valero, EPA, TCEQ and other agencies does not currently indicate that safety thresholds were exceeded,” the judge said. “In the coming weeks, we should have a better understanding of the cause of the explosion. Jefferson County will work with Valero on a post-incident review to better prepare for and respond to any emergency that may occur in our community.”