A flash fire at the Texas International Terminals in Galveston on Thursday afternoon left five workers injured, prompting a swift emergency response. The incident occurred at approximately 3:15 p.m. and involved a shipping vessel docked at the facility.
City officials confirmed that the fire erupted during routine maintenance operations. Workers were conducting hot work, a process involving welding or cutting, when an unexpected flash fire broke out.
Emergency crews arrived quickly, extinguishing the flames and evacuating the area. The five injured workers were transported to local hospitals, two in critical condition. Their identities have not been released.
Galveston Fire Chief Charles Olsen stated that the cause of the fire is under investigation, with initial reports indicating a possible equipment malfunction. “Safety is a top priority, and we are working closely with federal and state agencies to determine what went wrong,” Olsen said.
The terminal, located on Old Port Industrial Road, temporarily suspended operations following the fire. Officials from the Texas International Terminals expressed their concern for the injured workers and assured full cooperation with the investigation.