A massive 6-alarm fire tore through a Kimberly-Clark paper goods warehouse in Ontario, California, early Tuesday morning, prompting a large-scale emergency response and an arson investigation.
Massive Blaze Erupts at Kimberly-Clark Distribution Center
Fire crews with the Ontario Fire Department responded around 1:45 a.m. to reports of flames and heavy smoke at a warehouse located in the 9500 block of Merrill Avenue. First responders arriving at the scene encountered intense fire conditions and thick smoke pouring from the roof.
The facility, a 1.2 million-square-foot distribution center, stored large quantities of paper goods, which significantly fueled the fire’s rapid spread and intensity.
Over 140 Firefighters Battle 6-Alarm Fire
Officials confirmed that more than 140 emergency personnel were deployed to combat the blaze, with support from multiple agencies, including Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department, Chino Fire Department, San Bernardino County Fire Department, and the Riverside Fire Department.
Due to the scale of the fire, crews initiated a defensive firefighting strategy, focusing on containment and preventing further damage.
Thick Smoke Prompts Health Warnings
Aerial footage showed dense black smoke blanketing the surrounding area, with ash spreading through nearby neighborhoods. Authorities issued air quality warnings, urging children, seniors, and vulnerable residents to remain indoors.
Missing Person Located, No Injuries Reported
An individual initially reported missing during the incident was later located safely, and officials confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
A spokesperson for Kimberly-Clark stated that safety remains the company’s top priority and confirmed that the facility is operated by a third-party partner. The company is cooperating fully with local authorities.
Kimberly-Clark, headquartered in Irving, Texas, is known for producing major household brands such as Kleenex, Huggies, Kotex, Cottonelle, and Scott.
Arson Investigation Underway
Authorities revealed that the fire is being investigated as a possible arson case, and an employee has been detained for questioning in connection with the incident.
Arson investigators are expected to remain on-site for several hours as firefighters continue efforts to fully extinguish the blaze.
Key Highlights:
- 6-alarm fire at Kimberly-Clark warehouse in Ontario, California
- Over 140 firefighters responded with multi-agency support
- 1.2 million-square-foot facility contained highly flammable paper goods
- No injuries or fatalities reported
- Employee detained amid suspected arson investigation
- Air quality warnings issued due to heavy smoke
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the investigation progresses and crews work to bring the fire under full control.