The Houston Fire Department (HFD) reported on July 29 that two workers were found dead inside a hydro-seeding spreader truck at a local high school sports field. HFD said the workers were preparing to use the spreader when one opened the hatch and was overcome by fumes. He fell inside, and another worker attempted to assist him and was also overcome. A third worker called 911.
HFD initially identified the product involved as an organophosphate or a fertilizer. While a local media report also identified it as hydrogen sulfide, an OSHA spokesman said it would not be releasing the type of chemical until after its own report was complete.
The spreader truck was identified as being owned by Hy-Turf Seeding of Houston.