Keeping everyone safe

Posted July 17, 2025

A massive fire broke out around 2:15 a.m. on July 12, 2025, at the Stella-Jones utility-pole treatment plant in Brierfield, Alabama. Fueled by thousands of gallons of hazardous materials — including fuels and chemicals — the blaze sent flames hundreds of feet into the air.

Approximately 30 different fire crews responded, including units from Brierfield, Bibb, Chilton, Shelby, and Tuscaloosa counties. With few hydrants available, crews had to bring in water and establish remote staging areas.

At the Scene

Fire Chief Spruce McRee described how his team “fell back and watched it burn,” focusing on firefighter safety and environmental protection. The fire was marked by intense heat, explosions, and the release of hazardous materials, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation. Firefighters used defensive tactics to contain the threat while minimizing environmental impact.

Hazmat teams and environmental officials later confirmed that no contamination occurred. The fire eventually burned itself out and posed no threat to the nearby river.

One firefighter sustained first-degree burns following an explosion, and several fire trucks were damaged. Hazmat crews deployed thermal drones to safely detect lingering hot spots within the plant. Despite initial fears, officials confirmed there was no toxic runoff or community environmental hazard.

Investigation & Lessons Learned

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though it is believed that the handling of hazardous materials may have contributed. The Alabama State Fire Marshal is leading the formal investigation into the origin and extent of the damage. No official conclusions have been released to date.

Officials praised the value of the facility’s existing emergency plans and resources, though Chief McRee acknowledged that real-world events can challenge even the most thorough preparations.

Fire department leadership plans to conduct a full after-action review to evaluate the response, resource deployment, and lessons learned for future readiness.

Gratitude

Stella-Jones reported that no employees were injured and expressed gratitude to first responders for their efforts to protect both people and the surrounding community.