Two young oil refinery workers — with family ties reaching into South Texas — are fighting through critical burn injuries after a catastrophic fire at the Valero refinery in Ardmore, Oklahoma.
César Tamez and José Maximiliano Silva Garza, both from General Terán, Nuevo León, were among five workers injured when the fire broke out Monday afternoon at the facility.
For César’s brother, Emiliano, one phone call changed everything.
César suffered second- and third-degree burns across much of his body. Doctors have told the family he could remain hospitalized for up to two months, facing multiple surgeries and weeks inside a specialized burn unit.
Valero officials say the fire was extinguished quickly and emergency protocols were activated. But for the families waiting and praying, investigations and statements offer little comfort.
They don’t need answers right now.
They need their sons.
Their brothers.
Their loved ones to survive.
Recovery from severe burns is long and brutal — physically and emotionally. Pain, uncertainty, and fear fill every hour.
Tonight, their families are asking for prayers for César and José:
- Protection from infection
- Successful surgeries
- Relief from pain
- Strength for their families
- And complete healing
As these families wait through the longest nights of their lives, one question remains:
What would you want them to hear right now? 🙏
