AUSTIN, Nov 16 — Four workers died early Saturday in a gas leak at a chemical plant in Texas.

The accident took place at a DuPont facility in La Porte, Texas on Saturday. Several workers were performing maintenance work inside the plant.

Methyl mercaptan, a toxic chemical which is used to produce insecticide, was leaked because of a failed valve, according to USA Today. It is in liquid form when stored, but quickly vaporizes when it is released and mixed with oxygen.

Two brothers, identified as Robert and Gilbert Tisnado, were among the dead. One of them tried to rescue the other, but he too was killed in the accident.

One other worker is hospitalised. A strong smell lingers in the surrounding area, but it does not pose any danger.

“There are no words to fully express the loss we feel or the concern and sympathy we extend to the families of the employees and their co-workers,” said plant manager Randall Clements. — Reuters

Two brothers, identified as Robert and Gilbert Tisnado, were among the dead. One of them tried to rescue the other, but he too was killed in the accident. — Reuters pic