Tyler Industrial Chemical Fire: Evacuation, Air Cleared

**Tyler, TX –** A significant industrial chemical fire erupted early Tuesday morning, January 19, 2021, at the North Star Galvanizing facility located on East Grande Boulevard, just east of Loop 323. The incident sent a large, thick plume of black smoke billowing into the sky visible from areas including the nearby Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, prompting a robust emergency response and temporary safety measures for local residents.

The blaze, which involved zinc dust, other chemicals, a large melting pot of zinc, and stored sulfuric acid, initiated a multi-agency response. The Tyler Fire Department led the efforts, supported by HAZMAT teams, the Smith County Sheriff's Office, and Smith County Emergency Management due to the chemical nature of the fire.

Initial concerns focused on air quality, leading officials to advise residents in the vicinity to stay indoors. A voluntary evacuation was also issued for approximately 100 homes within a half-mile radius of the North Star Galvanizing facility. Nearby educational institutions, including Owens Elementary and Moore Middle School, kept students indoors as a precautionary measure.

However, officials later in the day confirmed that air quality samples taken from the area were "all clear," alleviating initial health concerns.

Authorities confirmed that all employees of North Star Galvanizing were accounted for, and no injuries were reported. Emergency crews remained on the scene throughout Tuesday evening, working to fully contain the incident and investigate its cause.