Local
Newport orders one-mile evacuation after fire and ammonia leak at seafood facility
A fire at a Pacific Seafood plant on Newport’s Bayfront prompted evacuations within a mile Sunday morning after ammonia was detected in the smoke. No injuries had been reported, and a regional hazardous materials team was being sent to help firefighters.
NEWPORT, Ore. — Homes and businesses within a mile of a Pacific Seafood plant on Newport’s Bayfront were evacuated Sunday after a fire caused a partial roof collapse and released ammonia into the smoke, city officials said.
Newport firefighters were dispatched at 8:51 a.m. Oct. 25, with departments from across Lincoln County called in to assist. About 40 firefighters were at the scene by midmorning. Fire Chief Rob Murphy said ammonia was present in the smoke, though he could not say how much. The smoke and potential exposure risk led officials to order evacuations.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office said it was sending a regional hazardous materials team and coordinator to Newport. The city advised residents to stay indoors or wear a mask if they went outside. Police blocked an entrance to the Bayfront as smoke spread over the area.
Sam Case Elementary School was designated as a gathering place for people displaced by the evacuation. By 11:45 a.m., about a dozen evacuees had arrived, many with pets; school district employees provided food and water. The Lincoln County School District also closed its other Newport schools to the public Sunday as a precaution.
Caitlin Ryan, who lives north of the plant, said she left quickly with her two children and dog after receiving an evacuation order, but could not get her kitten and left other pets at home. Dave Eckleman, who lives near the Newport Recreation Center, said he and his wife took only their phones and keys when they left. “We’d rather be home but ammonia is no joke,” he said.
No injuries had been reported as of Sunday evening. Murphy said the response would be a lengthy operation.