ALLEGAN (WKZO) — An intense fire at the Allegan Metal Finishing Company on Lincoln Road and M-89 in Allegan early Sunday took several fire departments most of the day to douse all the flames.
Fire District Chairman Jon Cook says the plant was a labarynth of small shops and buildings, filled with dangerous chemicals and .
Residents living nearby reported the sound of explosions as they were being evacuated from a nearby Mobile Home park, which remained evacuated most of the day.
It was a precaution because of concerns that chemicals used at the plant could generate hazardous fumes.
It started just after 2 a.m. closing nearby M-89 for 16 hours. .
The roof and several walls of the business have collapsed. The damage from those who have gotten a close look appears to be total. No word on the cause. The fire broke out at a time when the plant was closed for the weekend.
There have been no reports of any injuries.
The firm employed 80 to 100 people before the fire. They will be able to meet with Michigan Works monday morning at 10:00 at Blessed Sacrament Church to find out how they can file for unemployment, start a job search and get counseling.
Its not clear yet if the owner plans to rebuild.
