Firefighters from three counties responded to a massive garage fire in the area of Finefrock Road in Massillon Tuesday evening, battling intense flames and a hazardous diesel fuel spill that required a coordinated, multi-agency response.
The blaze was reported around 4:30 p.m., with the initial dispatch indicating that flames were already breaking through the roof of the 50-by-100-foot metal garage. Seven semi-tractor trailers inside were quickly engulfed, prompting officials to elevate the fire to a fifth alarm. Due to the lack of nearby hydrants, 13 tanker trucks were called in to transport water, ultimately supplied from the city of Massillon and a nearby intermediate school property.
The fire caused the building to collapse, leading to the release of approximately 500 gallons of diesel fuel into the yard and a nearby stream. Firefighters immediately set up containment booms in the stream to prevent environmental contamination, and the Stark County Hazmat team was summoned to assess and mitigate the spill.
“We had water supply challenges at first, but setting up two tower ladders allowed us to tackle the flames head-on,” said Brewster Fire Investigator Thom Ross. “Safety was our top priority, especially with hazardous materials involved.”
The building is considered a total loss, with the owner reporting the fire shortly after it began. The cause remains under investigation, though fire officials confirmed the presence of multiple fuel tanks, including a propane tank, inside the structure. Over 100 firefighters from Stark, Wayne, and Tuscarawas counties worked in tandem to bring the fire under control, keeping the flames contained to the property and away from nearby homes.
Operations are expected to continue into the night as crews wait for excavating equipment to clear debris and access lingering hot spots. The State Fire Marshal’s office will meet with local officials on-site Wednesday morning to further investigate the origin of the fire.
No injuries have been reported, and officials praised the teamwork and swift coordination among departments contracted to serve this rural area, which spans multiple zip codes and jurisdictions.
“This was a significant event, and our teams came together to keep everyone safe and prevent further spread,” Ross added. “The response was fast and effective, which is exactly what was needed.”
