California Kimberly-Clark paper goods warehouse engulfed in 6-alarm fire; suspect detained in alleged arson
Crews from the Ontario Fire Department and neighboring agencies battled a massive 6-alarm fire at a Kimberly-Clark paper goods warehouse on Tuesday morning.
Firefighters responded to the fire around 1:45 a.m. after receiving reports of smoke and flames at the warehouse. First-arriving units reported heavy smoke coming from the roof and heavy fire conditions.
Crews began a defensive fire attack and immediately requested additional resources to the 9500 block of Merrill Avenue. Ontario Fire Deputy Chief Mike Wedell said they had more than 140 personnel working to extinguish the blaze and received assistance from the Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department, Chino Fire Department, San Bernardino County Fire Department and the Riverside Fire Department.
Aerial footage showed clouds of black smoke covering the nearby area and ash flying in the air. Fire officials urged children and seniors near the fire to remain indoors due to the poor air quality.
An individual was initially reported missing, but was located by crews.
Authorities said the 1.2 million square foot warehouse was a Kimberly-Clark distribution center that contained paper goods, which contributed to the intensity of the blaze.
"We are aware of the fire at our distribution center in Ontario, California earlier today. Safety is our top priority, and we can confirm there are no reported injuries," a spokesperson for Kimberly-Clark said. "The facility is operated by a third-party partner, and we are working closely with them and local authorities."
Kimberly-Clark is a well-known company that manufactures paper-based brands like Kleenex, Huggies, Kotex, Cottonelle and Scott. The company is headquartered in Irving, TX, but operates globally.
Ontario Cpl. Emily Williams said the initial report of the fire was possible arson and an employee had been detained and will be questioned.
Arson investigators will be on scene for several hours as crews continue to fight the fire.
No injuries or fatalities have been reported from this incident.
