Thousands Evacuated as Toxic Fire Burns at Indiana Recycling Plant

A large industrial fire broke out Tuesday afternoon at a recycling plant in the eastern Indiana city of Richmond, forcing the evacuation of approximately 2,000 people. The fire, which started at an abandoned Hoffco factory that was being used to store plastics, is expected to burn for days.

Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones said in a news briefing that the smoke from the fire is “definitely toxic” and warned residents of the danger. He added that there is a “host of different chemicals that plastics give off when they’re on fire, and it’s concerning.”

Richmond Fire Department Chief Tim Brown said at a Tuesday evening press conference that the facility was “fully loaded with unknown type of plastics.” He added that the fire spread from the semi-trailer to other piles of plastics that were around the trailer.

The Richmond Fire Department, along with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, are working together to ensure the safety of the community. The evacuation order is still in effect and residents are being asked to stay away from the area until the fire is contained.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. In the meantime, the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office is urging residents to take precautions and stay away from the area until the fire is extinguished.