Watson Grinding and Manufacturing Explosion

Representing Victims of Explosion in West Houston

On January 24, 2020, the west Houston area was rocked by an explosion at Watson Grinding and Manufacturing. The blast caused extensive home damage throughout the surrounding neighborhoods and resulted in injuries and deaths.

At The León Law Firm, P.C., our attorneys are committed to helping the people impacted by this tragedy recover from the damages. Houston residents who were harmed in the blast or suffered from property damage may be entitled to compensation — contact us to discuss the details of your case.

Complete our contact formor call (281) 980-4529 to schedule a free consultation.

Details of the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing Explosion

The location of the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing business exploded at approximately 4:20 a.m. on a Friday morning. The company produces machine parts and coating chemicals, along with providing other industrial services.

Residents throughout the city of Houston heard the blast and felt the impact of the explosion. The business will be closed until further notice. It is currently the subject of developing lawsuits brought forth by the victims of injury and property damage that resulted from the explosion.

Damages Caused by the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing Explosion

As of January 27, 2020, the reported casualties of the explosion were 2 deaths and multiple injuries, as well as damage to approximately 450 surrounding buildings. The Office of Emergency Management reported that 35 structures sustained major damage, 358 structures sustained minor damage, and 57 structures sustained “other” types of damage, according to KHOU 11 news. The official number of damages that resulted from the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing explosion is still being calculated.

Twenty people were reported as injured, all with non-life-threatening injuries. Two people were taken to a local hospital by the fire department; the eighteen others were able to transport themselves to the hospital. Reported injuries included cuts, bruises, and respiratory issues. The two people who were killed were both employees of Watson Grinding and Manufacturing.

Debris was found a quarter-mile from the business, and residents who live up to 2 miles from the site were urged to look for debris on their property, not touch anything they find, and contact authorities immediately. Broken windows and doors were some of the most common types of damages to homes, while others that were more severely damaged sustained structural threats.

The neighborhoods of Westbranch and Carverdale were most impacted by the explosion. The local police cut off access to the area — residents were only granted access into their damaged homes with identification.

Who is Liable for Explosion Damages?

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. Although the official cause is still unknown, people who were injured or sustained property damage in the explosion may have a case against Watson Grinding and Manufacturing. The business is primarily liable for the results of the blast.

A wrongful death claim against the business has been filed by the family of one of the deceased workers, according to Click2Houston. The lawsuit alleges that Watson Grinding and Manufacturing “failed to maintain propylene tanks to prevent leaks,” “failed to warn employees of dangerous conditions,” and “violated OSHA and EPA regulations,” among other offenses.

Contact Us to Schedule a Free Consultation

The León Law Firm, P.C. is representing people who were impacted by the Watson Grinding and Manufacturing explosion in west Houston. Legal action related to the explosion has already begun — if your family suffered because of the business’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation.

If you are interested in speaking with our legal team, call (281) 980-4529 or send us a messageto schedule a free consultation.