Massive Richmond, Ind. fire prompts evacuations and concerns

Schools were closed Wednesday and some residents are still being warned to take precautions after a massive industrial fire in Richmond, Ind., Tuesday. Smoke could be seen for miles and people nearby were told to evacuate.

Investigators are still trying to sort out what caused the enormous fire across 14 acres at a former factory site full of plastics. The Richmond Fire Chief said some fires were still burning Wednesday morning, though the city said they are under control. Evacuation orders were expected to remain in place through Wednesday.

"The Richmond Fire Department is the responsible agency but is being assisted by multiple surrounding agencies within and around the county," the Wayne County Emergency Management Agency said. "Agencies at the scene include Indiana Fire Marshal’s Office, Indiana Department of Homeland Security, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and several local departments."

A Community Help Line is available at [login to see] and the city of Richmond's website.