Blog

Emergency crews responded to a large explosion and fire at the HF Sinclair Navajo Refinery in Artesia, New Mexico, on Friday, October 31, 2025. The incident occurred late in the morning, sending thick plumes of smoke drifting across the city and prompting authorities to order nearby residents to shelter indoors. 

According to officials, three people were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment following the explosion. HF Sinclair confirmed that all personnel at the refinery have since been accounted for, and the fire was fully extinguished by early afternoon. Roads surrounding the facility, including Highway 82, were temporarily closed as emergency responders worked to secure the area and prepare landing zones for medical helicopters. 

Local agencies, including the Artesia Police Department and the Eddy County Office of Emergency Management, urged residents to avoid the vicinity and remain indoors with doors and windows closed until air quality testing confirmed it was safe to resume normal activity. HF Sinclair reported that air monitoring was underway throughout the afternoon to assess any potential hazards. 

The Dangers of Refinery Explosions

Refineries like the HF Sinclair Navajo facility process flammable and volatile materials, making them among the most hazardous industrial environments in the country. Even a single spark or mechanical failure can trigger a chain reaction that leads to an explosion or fire. Common contributing factors to refinery explosions may include: 

• Equipment malfunction or corrosion that compromises pipelines, pressure vessels, or containment systems. 
• Failure to follow proper safety procedures, such as inadequate inspection routines or improper storage of volatile chemicals. 
• Human error or insufficient training can increase the likelihood of ignition or delayed response to developing hazards. 
• Neglect of fire prevention or suppression systems, including outdated safety infrastructure or poor maintenance practices. 

In the aftermath of a refinery explosion, determining the root cause requires extensive investigation. Federal and state agencies, along with independent experts, typically review maintenance records, safety protocols, and equipment logs to identify whether negligence played a role.

Accountability and the Rights of Victims

Industrial accidents like this one can have long-lasting effects on both workers and surrounding communities. Employees who are injured may face serious burns, respiratory issues, or trauma from the blast itself. Nearby residents may also suffer from exposure to toxic smoke or debris. 

“When explosions occur at facilities that handle highly flammable materials, it’s critical to find out whether this was truly an accident or the result of systemic safety failures,” says Brian Colón, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, New Mexico. “Workers and families in Artesia and the Permian Basin deserve transparency, accountability, and support as they recover from this terrifying event.” 

If investigators determine that unsafe practices or equipment defects contributed to the incident, those affected may have grounds to pursue legal action. Potential claims can include:

• Personal injury claims for workers or residents who were hurt in the explosion or suffered health effects from smoke exposure. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care.
• Property damage claims for homeowners or businesses impacted by the blast or drifting smoke. 
• Wrongful death claims on behalf of any individuals who lost their lives as a result of the explosion or related complications. 

While the full cause of the HF Sinclair refinery explosion in Artesia remains under investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in industrial operations involving combustible materials. For those harmed by the blast or its aftermath, pursuing accountability through legal action may be an important step toward recovery and closure. Our firm has handled similar catastrophic incidents such as the Moss Landing Power Plant Fire and Esparto Fireworks Explosion in California. Singleton Schreiber’s attorneys are dedicated to representing victims of industrial accidents and helping them secure the justice and support they deserve.