June 20, 2023 - On Saturday June 17 at approximately 2:45pm the Center Fire Department was notified of a fire at the Portacool Manufacturing Plant located at 711 FM 2468.
Center Fire Dept immediately responded and found heavy smoke coming from the structure and a second page was sent out asking for all available help. The fire began to spread quickly and ultimately the main production building was a total loss.
Firefighters worked together for over 8 hours battling this blaze. I would like to thank all of the Shelby County Volunteer Fire Depts along with DeSoto Parish, Nacogdoches, San Augustine, and Carthage Fire Departments for their assistance with manpower and apparatus.
Also thanks to Allegiance EMS, our local law enforcement, and TDEM Liaison Officers. Thank you Center ISD for providing school buses for fire personnel to sit inside to cool down and Feed Trough Cafe and Shelby County Ag Mechanics Foundation for the food and rehab trailer.
To all others whose name I failed to mention; if you were there providing food, drinks and support, thank you very much. Our prayers go out to all of the employees at Portacool.
Keith Byndom
City of Center / Fire Chief
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