Dozens ‘being decontaminated’ after chemical spill in West Virginia

KANAWHA COUNTY, W.Va. (WOWK) – Multiple people are receiving treatment after a chemical spill in West Virginia on Wednesday.

Authorities in Institute, just outside of Charleston, reported the spill at around 9:30 a.m. at Ames Goldsmith Catalyst Refiners. The company refines ethylene oxide catalyst. Sometimes known as EO, ethylene oxide can be found in various products, including cleaning supplies, antifreeze, and cosmetics.

Kanawha County Emergency Services Director C.W. Sigman has confirmed that the spill was nitric acid – a strong corrosive and oxidizer – mixed with another unknown chemical. Dr. Tom Takubo, who serves as a state senator for part of Kanawha County, identified that as Bonderite, a “surface treatment, cleaners and lubricants,” which, when inhaled, can irritate the lungs and block oxygen from getting into the bloodstream.

Takubo added that 35 to 45 people were being decontaminated at the scene, though some would require care at a hospital. Sigman said ambulances and buses were used to take patients to awaiting hospitals.

Crews from Nexstar’s WOWK reported an odor similar to that of a skunk in the area that has since dissipated.

Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed in a statement that “a number of individuals” were receiving treatment at local hospitals.

Earlier reports indicated that multiple people may have been found unresponsive, according to Kanawha County Metro 911.

Medical staff wait to tend to patients following a reported chemical spill near Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026. (WOWK)

Emergency crews respond to a reported chemical spill near Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026. (WOWK)

Emergency agencies were responding to the area of Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026, for a reported chemical spill. (WOWK)

A closed sign is posted at a business following a reported chemical spill in the area of Institute, West Virginia, on April 22, 2026. (WOWK)

Exposure to nitric acid can lead to severe burns in the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, according to the University of Maryland Department of Environmental Safety, Sustainability & Risk. Pulmonary edema, or the buildup of fluid within the lungs, may result from breathing in nitric acid, as well as damage to the lungs and mucous membranes.

Several state and local agencies have responded to the scene.

Authorities initially issued a shelter-in-place order for a one-mile radius around Catalyst Refiners, which covered the campus of West Virginia State University. That order, as well as several similar orders for area schools, has since been lifted.

WOWK is working to get additional information.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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