An explosive inferno engulfed an automotive supply company located in southeast Louisiana on Friday, setting off flames and a dense tower of black smoke that led to the evacuation of nearby residents and an elementary school. No injuries were reported in the blaze at Smitty’s Supply, located just north of the town of Roseland, according to officials. The evacuation was ordered for all those living within a one-mile radius, affecting Roseland, home to around 1,100 people, approximately 50 miles northeast of Baton Rouge.
Tangipahoa parish President Robby Miller remarked that the lack of injuries was akin to a miracle. He stated that the focus is on safeguarding individuals, structures, and the environment as crews entered their third hour of battling the fire. Miller, however, did not reveal the cause of the blaze, any potential chemical risks, or an estimated timeline for containing the fire.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored, urging the public to heed the guidance of local officials. Meanwhile, video footage revealed vibrant orange flames beneath a blanket of smoke consuming Smitty’s Supply in Arcola, a small unincorporated community. The fire service was seen tackling the blaze with streams of water.
Smitty’s Supply specializes in delivering high-performance lubricants and automotive parts, including oils, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and antifreeze, according to the company’s website. Approximately 400 individuals are employed at the property. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In addition to local fire crews and law enforcement, the Department of Environmental Quality and the Environmental Protection Agency were present at the scene to monitor the situation and provide guidance. The Tangipahoa parish school system also evacuated a nearby elementary school following a recommendation by the Office of Homeland Security. Buses were deployed to shuttle students to the school board office in a different town.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/aug/22/explosion-fire-louisiana-evacuations
