June 17, 2023 - (Photo Album) - The Center Fire Department along with the assistance of neighboring fire departments including West Shelby County VFD, Tenaha VFD, Timpson VFD, Shelbyville VFD, Joaquin VFD, Huxley VFD, San Augustine VFD, DeSoto Fire District 1, Carthage FD and Nacogdoches FD have been fighting a fire at the Portacool Plant in Center since not long after 2:45pm. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time as firefighters continue to contain the blaze while protecting nearby buildings and houses.
The Media, Plastic and Shipping building appears to be mostly down and firefighters have continued to work to save the Production building and its contents.
Several members of the community brought ice and water to help keep everyone there and firefighters from overheating.
Shelby County Sheriff's Department Deputies, and Center Police Department have been assisting with traffic control at both ends of FM 2468.
Statement from Portacool:
"Today at approximately 2:45pm, there was a fire that swept through the Portacool manufacturing facility. This is currently being investigated. It has been confirmed that no one was in the plant at the time of the fire.
This article is copied from Shelby County Today without permission.
The safety and well-being of our employees and surrounding neighbors are our top priority. As more information becomes available, we will provide updates.
Please keep the Portacool family in your prayers."
Related article:
- Joaquin VFD Reports on Response to Portacool Fire
- Center FD Reports on Portacool Fire, Offers Thanks for Assistance
- Portacool LLC Manufacturing Employee Information Update
Courtesy photo
