Fire strikes Motiva’s Convent refinery; non-essential personnel sent home

Published 1:39 pm Thursday, August 11, 2016

CONVENT — Motiva’s Convent refinery experienced a fire involving one of its heavy oil units at approximately 10:50 a.m. today, St. James Parish officials said.

Motiva has initiated its emergency response plan and has deployed personnel to respond to the fire.

“Our No. 1 priority is the safety of the men and women who live and work within our community,” St. James Parish President Timmy Roussel said. “Parish Government is working with Motiva officials in response to this incident.”

No injuries have been reported at the refinery, and all non-essential personnel have been sent home for the day.

Air monitoring is underway to confirm there is no community impact.

Closed earlier today, parish leaders said Louisiana 70 is back open.