Structure Fire at Pacific Seafood Triggers Emergency Response in Newport
NEWPORT, Ore — On Sunday morning, a large fire erupted at the Pacific Seafood facility located on Newport’s historic Bayfront, prompting multiple agencies to respond due to the potential for hazardous material contamination.
Evacuations and Safety Measures
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office implemented Level 2 and 3 evacuations within a one-mile radius of the site at 203 SW Bay Boulevard. As of 9 p.m., these evacuation levels were lifted across all affected areas, reported John Fuller, the Public Information Officer for the city of Newport.
Although the fire has been contained, significant smoke permeated the area, leading officials to recommend that residents wear masks outdoors for safety.
Emergency Response and Shelter
Initially, an evacuation shelter was established at Sam Case Elementary but was relocated to Atonement Lutheran Church at 2315 N Coast Hwy due to changing wind patterns. This evacuation point has since closed.
Fuller commended the collaborative efforts of local and regional fire and emergency services, stating, “We have greatly reduced those evacuation zones here for our community thanks to our fire department and the 18 fire departments and emergency management teams that have come here to assist.”
Overview of the Incident
The fire began around 8:30 a.m., raising concerns due to the presence of anhydrous ammonia tanks at the facility, a chemical crucial for refrigeration. The Oregon State Fire Marshal, Mariana Ruiz-Temple, confirmed the mobilization of a state hazmat team to address these concerns.
Thick, white smoke billowed from the site, and witnesses reported a strong odor reminiscent of burnt plastic. City officials indicated that early air quality assessments found traces of ammonia in the smoke, but at levels deemed non-harmful.
Structural Damage and Risks
The fire originated in a building designated for freezing seafood, with efforts focused on preventing its spread to adjacent businesses. Newport Fire Chief Rob Murphy noted that the structure partially collapsed during the incident.
Ruiz-Temple emphasized that the main concern was the potential collapse of the structure affecting the ammonia tanks on-site, though at the latest update, there had been no reports of tank rupture.
Community Support and Future Steps
In the aftermath of the fire, around 30 to 40 people were accounted for, with no reported injuries except for one firefighter who was hospitalized for exhaustion. An investigation into the cause of the fire will commence once it is deemed safe to enter the building.
Fuller indicated that the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s office is collaborating with local fire departments in this investigation. The city continues to monitor air quality, advising residents to remain cautious when outside.
The local community is rallying to support those affected, with organizations providing food and resources to displaced individuals. Pacific Seafood expressed deep concern over the incident and confirmed that all staff present are safe.
“Pacific Seafood is devastated by today’s fire in Newport,” said Ashton Meier, VP of Resource Sales and Processing. “We expect that it will be a major loss.” The company is focused on supporting both its employees and the broader community moving forward.
Official Statements
Governor Kotek acknowledged the situation on social media, expressing gratitude for the efforts of first responders and assuring that the state would continue to provide necessary support to local teams.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that local hospitals are operating as usual, and updates will be provided via LINCALERTS.
Conclusion
The incident at Pacific Seafood has raised concerns not only for immediate safety but also for the long-term economic impact on Newport’s community, particularly as the facility serves as a major employer and contributor to the local economy.
