JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (From news reports) -- Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department crews extinguished a fire at a recycling facility west of Downtown Jacksonville that erupted Monday afternoon, Feb. 9, sending smoke into the air that was visible for miles.
The fire was declared controlled shortly after 6 p.m. but crews planned to be on scene throughout the night to monitor for burning.
Jacksonville Fire Rescue District Chief Aaron Bebernitz said the fire at Smurfit Westrock on West Beaver Street was reported around 4:15 p.m. It was determined to have started in the main production building of the facility, which mainly handles paper products.
The fire spread quickly, Bebernitz said, due to the wind. The cause of the fire was not immediately clear, but it is not believed to have started due to any equipment issues.
No injuries were reported, and the smoke is not considered to be a threat to the community.