Recycling Plant Fire Contained in Jacksonville, No Injuries Reported
A fire at the Smurfit Westrock recycling plant in Jacksonville, Florida, was brought under control Monday evening, according to the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). The blaze, which erupted around 4:15 p.m. On West Beaver Street in the Mixon Town area, sent a large plume of smoke visible for miles across the Jacksonville metropolitan area.
JFRD District Chief A.W. Bebernitz stated the fire originated in the main production building of the facility, which primarily processes paper products. While the cause of the fire remains undetermined, authorities do not believe it was related to any equipment malfunction.
Witness Pamela Robinson, who was visiting a godmother nearby, described hearing what sounded like an explosion before observing the thick black smoke rising from the plant. “Fire trucks were coming from this way and that way, I said ‘oh! That’s a real fire!’” Robinson told local news.
Firefighters faced challenging conditions as they battled the blaze, with wind and dry weather contributing to its rapid spread. Bebernitz noted the conditions were similar to those experienced during recent brush fires in the region, creating significant obstacles for crews.
Despite the intensity of the fire, JFRD confirmed that no injuries were reported. At the time the fire started, between five and ten employees were reportedly inside the building.
JFRD’s hazmat team monitored air quality throughout the incident, and initial assessments indicate the smoke did not pose a threat to the surrounding community. The department conducted multiple air quality tests during the fire’s duration.
As of Tuesday morning, crews remained on scene to monitor for any remaining hot spots and ensure the fire was completely extinguished. JFRD is currently evaluating whether to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the fire or defer to the state fire marshal.
This incident marks at least the 11th building fire JFRD has responded to this year, following a total of 108 commercial building fires in 2025.
