HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY) — A pump clearly labeled kerosene has been shut down at the Tinee Giant/Sunoco gas station on Pembroke Avenue in Hampton.
Late last week, a 10 On Your Side viewer contacted the newsroom to report the kerosene pump contained gasoline. WAVY-TV visited the station, where some customers were unaware of the mix-up.
Regina Mobley: We just found out a couple of days ago that there was gasoline in the pump and not kerosene.
Charlie Richardson: OK. I didn’t even know anything about that, you know. So I can’t complain.
Earlier this month near Lexington, Kentucky, a similar potential kerosene/gasoline mix-up caused a heater in a home to explode.
Tinee Giant corporate officials confirmed the mix-up in Hampton, and a spokesperson told 10 On Your Side that anyone who purchased what they thought was kerosene at the store on Pembroke Ave between Dec. 6, 2023, and Jan. 25, is eligible for a refund when the product is returned.
Hampton Fire officials cautioned people not to take chances with tainted fuel.
“That [contamination] was a surprise and concern, just like everybody else probably has who may have purchased their product during that time frame,” Lt. Christopher Blazek said. “Gasoline has a greater risk of flash and explosion hazards due to the vapor.”
With Tinee Giant offering refunds, Blazek said consumers should also contact the company that made the appliance that contains contaminated fuel.
“If you’ve already filled it into your product or appliance,” Blazek said, “discontinue using that product and contact your manufacturer for additional recommendations.”
