Colorado Investigates Diesel Contamination in Gasoline at Multiple Stations

Colorado's Division of Oil and Public Safety is investigating over 200 complaints from drivers who purchased gasoline contaminated with diesel fuel at various Denver-area stations. The affected fuel was distributed between 2 p.m. on January 7 and 6 a.m. on January 8 from the HF Sinclair terminal in Henderson, Colorado.

The contamination has been confirmed at stations operated by Costco, Murphy Express, and King Soopers. King Soopers identified several impacted locations, including:

• 14967 Candelas Pkwy., Arvada
• 25701 E Smoky Hill Rd., Aurora
• 17000 E Iliff Ave., Aurora
• 3050 S Peoria St., Aurora
• 1045 S 1st St., Bennett
• 12167 Sheridan Blvd., Broomfield
• 2355 W 136th Ave., Broomfield
• 7284 Lagae Rd., Castle Pines
• 750 N Ridge Rd., Castle Rock
• 5125 W Florida Ave., Denver
• 1611 Pace St., Longmont
• 12959 S Parker Rd., Parker
• 17761 Cottonwood Dr., Parker

Mechanics warn that using diesel-contaminated gasoline can cause significant vehicle damage. Aason Monie, general manager at Christian Brothers Automotive in Parker, estimated repair costs could range from $1,000 to $1,500, with potential increases if components like fuel injectors or pumps are affected.

Cher Haavind, deputy executive director for the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, advised consumers to contact the retailer where the fuel was purchased to report suspected contamination. Zach Hope, manager of the state's Storage Tank Program, indicated that fines against HF Sinclair are unlikely, as the incident does not appear to have been intentional.

HF Sinclair is investigating the cause of the contamination and is collaborating with distributors to address the issue. The company has urged affected customers to contact the gas station where the fuel was purchased.