NewsStateKansas

Actions

Tyson officials say welding spark likely caused Holcomb fire

Posted at 12:35 PM, Aug 15, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-15 13:35:21-04

GARDEN CITY, Kan. (AP) — Tyson officials say a spark from welding during maintenance is the likely cause of a fire that damaged the company's plant in Holcomb.

Tyson representatives met Wednesday with state and other government officials to discuss Friday night's fire, which caused extensive damage. No one was injured.

KWCH reports the company reaffirmed its commitment to rebuild the plant and reopen it as quickly as possible. Company officials said the fire damaged a small area but affected critical operating systems.

The company's president and CEO, Noel White, and Steve Stouffer, president of Tyson Fresh Meats, told officials work will begin immediately on structural damage. Other repairs, particularly electrical, will likely take more time. The company is currently completing a full assessment of the plant with electrical and structural engineers.