Chemical Leak in West Virginia: Two Dead, 30 Hospitalized

A sudden chemical spill at a silver‑recycling plant in Institute, West Virginia, claimed two lives and forced about thirty people to seek medical care. The incident unfolded while workers were shutting down part of the facility, triggering a violent reaction between nitric acid and another substance. The resulting gas burst was so strong that responders had to be moved away from the plant’s perimeter.

The dangerous mix produced hydrogen sulfide, a toxic compound that can cause severe breathing problems. Seven ambulance crews were among those injured while rushing to the scene, highlighting the risks first responders face when dealing with chemical emergencies. A few other victims were taken to hospitals in private cars, and one case even involved a garbage truck.

Local hospitals—Vandalia Health Charleston Area Medical Center and WVU Medicine Thomas Memorial Hospital—treated patients with coughs, shortness of breath, sore throats and itchy eyes. While most injuries were non‑life‑threatening, one individual remained in serious condition, prompting a shelter‑in‑place order that lasted more than five hours.

The plant’s owner, Ames Goldsmith Corp., expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and pledged cooperation with state and federal investigators. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration opened a six‑month inquiry into the cause of the leak, as authorities assess whether air and water supplies were affected.

Silver recovery is a common industry in the region, often involving nitric acid to dissolve materials and retrieve silver nitrate. The Institute area, once part of West Virginia’s “chemical valley,” has seen many hazardous plants close or change ownership over recent decades.