ONTARIO, Calif. – A massive 6-alarm structure fire ripped through a Kimberly-Clark distribution center in Ontario Tuesday morning, leading to the detainment of a current employee on suspicion of arson.
While the 1.2-million-square-foot facility suffered extensive damage, including a partial roof collapse, authorities confirmed that all employees are safe and no one was injured.
What we know:
The fire broke out around 12:30 a.m. at the facility located near Eucalyptus and South Hellman Avenue, according to officials. More than 140 firefighters from multiple agencies, including LA County, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties, responded to the scene.
Around 20 employees were inside the building, which houses larger quantities of household paper products like Kleenex and toilet paper.
Officials confirmed the internal sprinkler system was active, but the fire continued to spread due to the sheer volume of “fuel” that was igniting the flames.
Ontario police later detained a male employee who had been reported missing during the initial evacuation.
That employee is currently in custody as the primary arson suspect, according to authorities.
Officials said the building and its contents, mostly paper products, are a total loss. Several big-rig trucks at the loading docks were also damaged or destroyed.
What we don’t know:
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the employee in custody.
It’s also unclear exactly where within the structure the fire originated, or the specific method used to ignite the paper products.
What they’re saying:
“We are aware of the fire at our distribution center in Ontario, California earlier today. Safety is our top priority, and we can confirm there are no reported injuries. The facility is operated by a third-party partner, and we are working closely with them and local authorities. We will share additional information as it becomes available,” Kimberly-Clark said in a statement.
What’s next:
Authorities warn there is significant smoke and falling ash impacting the surrounding area. Residents are advised to avoid the area and remain indoors if possible.
While the fire is contained, it is not yet fully extinguished, officials said. Crews have transitioned to an exterior-only “defensive” approach as they put out any remaining hotspots.
The Ontario PD’s drone team is currently using thermal imaging to identify those hot spots and guide water streams from a safe distance.
What you can do:
If you have any information regarding the start of the fire, contact the Ontario Police Department’s investigative tip line at (909) 986-6711.
The Source: This report is based on information from the Ontario Police and Fire departments.