The cause of an early morning fire at a recycling plant on Mitchell Island Wednesday is under investigation, according to Richmond Fire-Rescue.
Flames were seen shooting out of the scrapyard of Richmond Steel Recycling – at 11760 Mitchell Road near Eburne Way – by the time Richmond Fire-Rescue arrived around 2:45 a.m., according to a witness.
The fire also caused heavy smoke in the area, however, no immediate environmental impacts or injuries were identified.
Initial reports of the blaze were of an explosion and fire in a large pile of scrapped cars, according to Richmond Fire-Rescue. Several fire-rescue units attended the scene.
Crews fought the fire with multiple hose lines and an aerial ladder, and worked to protect other buildings in the area, said the witness.
By 4:15 a.m., the fire was under control, although still burning, said fire-rescue.
Heavy equipment was used to remove vehicles from the pile, with Richmond Fire-Rescue making sure the fire was completely dealt with. The blaze has since been extinguished.
Mitchell Road is closed in both directions, and Richmond RCMP are working to control traffic in the area, with a detour in place for business access.
