Explosions, heavy fire cause problems during USA Metals blaze

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

The Joplin Fire Department responded to a commercial structure fire at 2002 W 7th Street, location of USA Metals and Recycling. The initial call came in at 5:37 p.m. June 3.

The first crew arrived at 5:41 p.m. and found the business with heavy fire and smoke showing. The crews went defensive due to the heavy fire and several hazards. Bystanders reported hearing several explosions those were most likely due to large amounts of gas and oil stored in drums in the building. The fire was confined to the building of origin and brought under control at approximately 8 p.m.

There were no injuries to firefighting crews or employees of the business. The Fire Department responded to the structure fire with 7 apparatus and 32 personnel.

At this time, the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Joplin Fire Marshal and the Missouri State Division of Fire Safety.

The Joplin Fire Department will provide information through a press release as the information is obtained following the investigation.