Chemical Explosion and Hazmat Situation At Congers Pharmaceutical Facility Prompts Evacuations in the Area

Yisroel R.

Smoke inside the Vitane Pharmaceuticals facility on Wells Avenue in Congers prompted a large emergency response this morning before the incident escalated into a chemical explosion.

The situation began around 8:05 a.m. at the facility, located at 125 Wells Avenue. As crews worked at the scene, hazmat teams from Rockland and Westchester counties were called in to assist with the chemical situation.

At around 9:22 a.m., a chemical explosion occurred inside the building, leading first responders to evacuate the site as they continued handling the hazmat situation. One firefighter suffered injuries at the scene.

Congers Fire Department, New City Fire Department, Valley Cottage Fire Department, West Haverstraw Fire Department, the Rockland County Hazmat Team, Westchester County hazardous materials responders, Rockland County Technical Rescue Team, Nyack Police, Haverstraw EMS, and Congers-Valley Cottage Ambulance Corps were among the agencies responding.

Central Nyack Fire Department and Haverstraw Fire Department were requested to provide fire coverage for Congers while the focus was at this location.

Residents and nearby businesses in the area were asked to evacuate for their safety and avoid Wells Avenue and Brenner Drive while emergency services remained on scene.

Anyone needing a place to stay during the evacuation was directed to the Congers Community Center on Congers Road.