Explosion at Louisiana automotive factory largely under control; evacuation still in effect
In the rural area north of Roseland, Louisiana, a fire at Smitty's Supply, an automotive supply plant, is still ongoing as crews continue to address remaining flames. The fire, which started following an explosion on a Friday in 2025, has been 90% contained as of Sunday.
The plant, specialising in providing high-performance lubricants and automotive parts, including oils, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and antifreeze, is located approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of Baton Rouge.
No injuries have been reported as a result of the fire. However, a mandatory evacuation order remains in place for residents within a one-mile (1.6-kilometer) radius of the plant, which was issued on Friday and is still in effect at noon on Sunday. The town of Roseland, with a population of about 1,100, is located near the plant.
Environmental response efforts are ongoing in the Tangipahoa River and surrounding waterways due to the fire at Smitty's Supply. During a press conference on Saturday, Louisiana State Police urged residents to minimise their contact with soot from the fire.
As of Sunday, all air monitoring for contaminants has shown either non-detectable readings or levels well below health-based or actionable thresholds. Response crews are currently working to remove structural debris and address covered hotspots at the plant.
Smitty's Supply employs approximately 400 people, according to the company's website. The specific name of the company that experienced the fire in the automotive supplier plant was not mentioned in the available information.
The fire has caused black smoke to billow over the surrounding rural area. The fire department and local authorities are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
