April 22, 2026 Governor Morrisey Issues Statement on Chemical Incident in Kanawha County ...

CHARLESTON, W.Va. - The West Virginia Department of Homeland Security's Emergency Management Division (EMD), the Department of Health, and the Department of Environmental Protection are coordinating closely with Kanawha County Emergency Management to address a chemical incident at the Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners along the border of Nitro and Institute. EMD personnel are currently stationed at the county's Command Center to provide direct operational support and DEP is providing decontamination and disposal assistance. State emergency leaders continue to monitor the situation and remain ready to deploy additional resources.

A number of individuals are currently receiving treatment at local hospitals, and state agencies stand ready to assist those affected as well. Residents in the surrounding area should continue to follow the Personal Protective Measures issued by Kanawha County for further safety guidance and updates.

"Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our citizens," said Governor Morrisey. "We are working around the clock with local officials to ensure this incident is contained and that all necessary state resources are on the ground to protect the community."