On Aug. 21, 2008, USW members Gene Gremillion and Robert (Robbie) Patilla of Local 13243 were critically injured by an explosion at ChemTrade Logistics in Beaumont, Texas.  

Details of the accident are unknown at this time and under investigation.

Brothers Gremillion and Patilla were transported to UTMB hospital in Galveston. Brother Gremillion sustained second-degree burns on his face, arms and legs. Brother Patilla has two broken legs and third-degree burns. He is in critical but stable condition. 

Emergency Response Team representativfe Duronda Pope is assiting the families and Health, Safety and Environment representative Kim Nibarger is investigating the accident.