FORT SMITH - A recycling facility on the Arkansas-Oklahoma border lays in ashes today after one of the largest fires in recent memories consumed it Sunday night. The Smurfitt Kappa North America recycling facility at 9709 Highway 271 South burst into a blaze that was seen from all corners of Fort Smith around 8:30 PM.
The Fort Smith Police Department had originally identified the blaze on social media as being at Altes Sanitation, which resides next door. Former Senator Denny Altes, who owns and operates that company said Sunday night that thanks to the efforts of first responders, the situation did not result in loss of life.
“The fire tonight was not at Altes Sanitation, it was at the Smurfitt Recycling building next to it. We are thankful that so far no one was injured or killed in the fire. The fire departments from all over the area were tremendous at responding,” Altes said. “Pocola Fire Department was a huge help to the Fort Smith Fire Department. Thank you to all the police officers and firefighters that are helping with this situation.”
Some residents of nearby Fianna Hills reported on social media the loss of power and hearing large explosions as the fire spread.
Initial reports indicated that the fire spread to the Southern Tire Mart location which is next door to the recycling facility. That business was reported to only have minor damage as investigators looked into the damage on Monday morning.
Parts of Highway 271 were closed overnight but re-opened just after sunrise as crews continue to clean up the remains of the fire.
