La Porte, Texas - A major chemical company in the city of La Porte issued a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents and workers following a toxic gas leak that resulted in eight individuals being hospitalized. Altivia Chemical, the company responsible for the leak, stated that it was actively working to contain the release of phosgene gas from its plant. As a precautionary measure, the city's emergency management agency directed residents and five neighboring chemical facilities to shelter in place.

According to local media reports, all eight injured individuals were in stable condition when they left the facility but were transported to the hospital for further evaluation as a precautionary measure. Situated approximately 30 miles east of Houston, La Porte's office of emergency management (LPOEM) issued a shelter-in-place order until the exact amount of phosgene gas released could be determined.

In a tweet, LPOEM stated, "A chemical emergency has occurred and residents south of Fairmont between Bay Area and S 16th Street need to immediately shelter in place." The order was later lifted by Altivia Chemical, approximately an hour after it had been put into effect.

Phosgene is a colorless gas that emits a suffocating odor similar to musty hay and is commonly used in the production of various chemicals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, as stated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Altivia Chemical could not be reached for immediate comment regarding the incident. However, with the prompt implementation of the shelter-in-place order, emergency responders were able to mitigate any potential risks posed by the leaked toxic gas.

Local authorities and Altivia Chemical will continue to investigate the cause of the gas leak to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The health and safety of residents and workers remain a top priority during such emergencies.

Residents are urged to stay informed and follow the instructions provided by local authorities during chemical emergencies to ensure their well-being and minimize the impact of such incidents on the community.