## Overview

After five years, the Intercontinental Terminals Company (ITC) has reached a $6.6 million settlement with the state of Texas for the 2019 chemical fire in Deer Park. The incident not only caused immediate destruction but also resulted in lasting damage to natural resources and the health of approximately 9,000 individuals.

## Impact on Victims

Greta Pires, one of the affected individuals, continues to suffer from irreversible health damage, including breathing difficulties and vision impairment. Despite the settlement, she emphasizes that no amount of money can compensate for the toll on her health.

## Pires’ Testimony

I cannot breathe, I have 10 nodules on my lungs. It’s constantly, very aggravating, very stressful. I don’t sleep in bed, I sleep in the recliner. I cannot breathe, Pires stated. Due to the risks associated with her lung condition, she cannot safely take steroids or cortisone, leaving her in constant fear of potential cancer development.

## Environmental Impact

The fire, which lasted three days, released hazardous chemicals into the air, water, and land, leaving visible damage to the surrounding environment. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the widespread consequences of industrial accidents.

## Legal Developments

The Texas Attorney General’s office has announced ongoing efforts to develop and adopt a restoration plan, seeking public input on the settlement for the next 30 days. Attorney General Ken Paxton emphasized the significance of holding companies accountable for environmental disasters, stating, All companies operating in our state must take the utmost precaution to prevent any such disaster from harming our citizens and our environment.

## Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Recovery

As victims like Greta Pires continue to grapple with the long-term effects of the 2019 ITC chemical fire, the settlement represents a step towards accountability and compensation. However, the incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures to prevent similar disasters in the future.

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