HOUSTON, Dec. 9, 2024 -- On Thursday, December 5, CITGO confirmed the bulk delivery of off-specification diesel (low flash point) at its Fairfax, Virginia terminal, which could impact consumers and other end users of diesel. All bulk CITGO customers who lifted diesel from the CITGO Fairfax terminal between 10:30 p.m. on December 2, 2024 and 11:30 a.m. on December 5, 2024 have been notified and asked to stop sales. CITGO has further requested customer assistance to determine the ultimate destination of the off-spec product so that CITGO can coordinate appropriate testing and remediation as necessary. Gasoline products are not affected by this incident.
After delivery at the Fairfax terminal, bulk diesel is typically further distributed to a variety of end-users, including automotive fuel users, home heating users, and commercial users. Distribution may occur via CITGO branded gas stations or other non-CITGO branded means (such as home-heating oil companies).
Accordingly, CITGO is working to ascertain precisely where the off-spec diesel was ultimately delivered and if consumers and other end users have any safety or other impacts which may require immediate action. While it is very unlikely that a vehicle or heating equipment will suffer any ill-effects by using this product, the off-spec product has a lower flash point and can be more flammable than on-spec diesel. If stored properly, this should not be a problem. However, we want to immediately test the possibly off-spec material and replace it, if off-spec. Our initial understanding is that the off-spec diesel is most likely to have ultimately been delivered to end-users in the greater Washington, D.C. metro area. CITGO is coordinating efforts to test the product – as delivered at its final destination – to confirm if it meets proper specifications.
CITGO is committed to safe, reliable and responsible operations and is conducting a full investigation into this incident. We also remain committed to maintaining the quality of our fuels and ensuring customer confidence in our products and the CITGO brand.
If a consumer believes they purchased off-spec diesel after December 2 or have any other concerns or questions, they should call 800-915-9161 immediately for further guidance. Consumers can also note any concerns through www.reportyourclaim.org with code 00393. If you are a CITGO customer with concerns or questions, please contact your CITGO business partner.