Conroe Chemical Plant Fatality: OSHA Probes

Conroe, TX – A fatal industrial accident at the Oleon Americas chemical plant in Conroe on Tuesday, June 18, claimed the life of 45-year-old Brandon Daughtry from Cleveland, Texas. The incident, which unfolded around 8:30 a.m. at the facility located at 2424 Pollok Drive, has prompted a full investigation by federal safety authorities.

Conroe Fire Chief Mike Legoudes reported that Daughtry was tragically struck or crushed by a heavy piece of equipment, specifically a lifting arm or boom connected to a forklift, in what officials are calling a workplace fatality.

Conroe Police initially responded to the scene, treating it as a death investigation. However, by early afternoon on June 18, the primary investigation was officially turned over to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office was also on site to assist with the initial response and assessment. OSHA is now actively looking into the precise circumstances surrounding this industrial fatality, which will involve examining equipment, reviewing safety procedures, and interviewing witnesses.

Brandon Daughtry, a resident of Cleveland, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through both the Conroe industrial community and his hometown. Details about his specific role at Oleon Americas were not immediately available.

Oleon Americas, a U.S. subsidiary of a Belgian-based company, specializes in manufacturing oleochemicals. These chemicals include esters utilized in lubricants, personal care products, and various industrial applications. The Conroe facility is a significant local employer and part of the region’s broader industrial landscape.

Following the accident, production in the immediate affected area of the plant was temporarily halted as investigations continue. While the company did not release an immediate official statement on record, sources close to the facility indicated that Oleon Americas is fully cooperating with OSHA and all relevant agencies to determine the cause of the tragedy and prevent future incidents.

OSHA investigations typically involve a comprehensive review of workplace conditions, equipment maintenance, employee training, and adherence to federal safety regulations. The agency’s findings, which can take several months to finalize, will be made public and may result in citations or penalties if violations are identified. Members of the public can access past inspection records for facilities through OSHA’s official website.

Authorities have not yet provided an estimated timeline for the completion of the investigation. Further updates are expected as OSHA’s inquiry progresses.