Tyler Industrial Fire Forces Evacuations

Tyler, TX – A large industrial fire at the East Texas PetroChem plant near Tyler Pounds Regional Airport (TYR) yesterday, November 20, 2025, prompted extensive evacuations and a significant emergency response. The multi-alarm blaze, which ignited around 1:30 PM, sent thick smoke plumes across the western side of Tyler, leading to temporary closures and safety alerts.

Emergency crews responded to the industrial facility located off County Road 1120. Due to the presence of chemicals at the plant, hazardous materials (HAZMAT) teams were quickly dispatched to the scene, and a two-mile evacuation radius was established.

The mandatory evacuation order affected residents in areas including parts of New Chapel Hill, the entire Airport Business Park, and various residential neighborhoods situated south of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. Officials, including the fire chief, issued warnings regarding potential air quality issues.

Despite the massive scale of the incident, authorities reported no serious injuries. Two firefighters were treated on site for smoke inhalation. Firefighters worked for hours to contain the blaze, which was largely brought under control by dusk on Thursday evening.

The cause of the multi-alarm fire remains under investigation. Officials indicated that the inquiry into the incident's origin is expected to take several weeks.