Longview, WA (May 27, 2026) – A chemical tank rupture at an industrial facility in Longview killed at least two people and left nine others unaccounted for as of Wednesday morning, May 27. Eight facility employees were hurt, and one responder was also injured in the aftermath.
Gilbert Bernal was confirmed as one of those affected, according to his family’s pastor. Nearly 20 people total were impacted by the rupture, which occurred Tuesday morning.
The tank is believed to have held around 600,000 gallons of white liquor, a toxic chemical used in paper production that causes severe burns and poses serious inhalation risks. In addition, unfortunately, a portion of the material spilled into the Columbia River. Roughly 25,000 gallons remained in the tank, which officials described as unstable.
Search operations shifted from rescue to recovery. The public has been asked to stay away from the surrounding area, including dikes and ditches running from Prudential Blvd to Washington Way, and Washington’s governor deployed National Guard personnel to assist with recovery and cleanup.
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board has opened a formal inquiry into what caused the rupture.
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those killed, and hold in our thoughts all those still missing.
What Happens After a Major Industrial Chemical Release?
When a large volume of toxic material escapes from an industrial tank, the response typically involves multiple layers of government: local, state, and federal. Environmental agencies work to assess how far the material has traveled, particularly when waterways are nearby.
White liquor, the chemical involved in this type of release, is highly caustic and can cause severe burns on contact with skin or tissue. It also poses risks when inhaled in concentrated amounts. In cases where a toxic spill reaches a river, environmental teams monitor water quality and downstream areas for contamination.
Recovery operations at large industrial sites can take days or weeks, depending on the volume of material released and the structural stability of what remains.
