TFRD Responds to Second-Alarm Fire on South Ave.

At approximately 4:50 a.m. this morning, Toledo Fire & Rescue Department crews were dispatched to a reported structure fire at an industrial textile reconditioning and recycling facility in the 2900 block of South Avenue.

Based on information received while crews were responding, the incident was upgraded to a second-alarm response prior to the arrival of the first TFRD units, bringing additional personnel and apparatus to the scene.

Initial reports indicated that approximately 12 individuals were believed to be inside the facility at the time of the fire. At this time, two individuals remain unaccounted for, and crews continue working to locate them. Employees who were able to evacuate the facility were evaluated and treated for injuries on scene.

The incident has also been classified as a building collapse, adding significant complexity to ongoing fire suppression and search operations. TFRD Hazardous Materials and Technical Rescue crews, in addition to Toledo Environmental Services and the EPA, are also on scene and actively involved in the response. Multiple tanks containing mineral spirits are located at the facility, creating an additional hazard for responding crews. TFRD personnel are monitoring the tanks and conditions surrounding them as operations continue.

This remains an active and evolving incident. The public is asked to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to safely operate.

The cause and origin of the fire have not yet been determined. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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