NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — The fire that broke out at a tire company in New Bedford has been deemed accidental, according to fire officials.
Crews responded to the mill-style building on Brook Street Thursday afternoon.
New Bedford Fire Chief Scott Kruger said the fire started in a tire shredding machine.
“Tire shredding is an ugly business,” Kruger said. “It presents a lot of problems for our fire prevention bureau.”
Bystanders told 12 News they heard explosions after the fire broke out.
Workers in neighboring buildings were asked to evacuate as a precaution.
Kruger said while the fumes from the building are toxic, there is no immediate threat to the area.
