Liberty County files lawsuit against Arkema over emissions after Harvey

HOUSTON – Liberty County has filed a lawsuit against Arkema, the chemical company whose plant in Crosby suffered multiple explosions in the days following Hurricane Harvey.  

The lawsuit claims Arkema violated several environmental laws when toxic chemicals were released during the explosions. 

Liberty County is asking the court to issue a restraining order against Arkema that would require the company to clean up contamination. 

The lawsuit also seeks a judgment on how much Arkema should have to pay for damages to the county. 

READ: Liberty County lawsuit

File: Liberty County lawsuit against Arkema

This is the second lawsuit filed against Arkema after Harris County sued the company in November 2017.

The Harris County complaint specifically lists harmful contaminants including sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which are capable of causing breathing problems and premature death in people with heart or lung disease, according to the EPA.

The U.S. Chemical Safety Board released a highly produced animation illustrating exactly what took place during the arrival and aftermath of Harvey.

Arkema acknowledged the release of 11 contaminants to the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality in the company's self-reporting of the event.  

Click through our timeline of the Arkema plant explosion below: