Flames Break Out at Cleveland, N.C. Truck Plant; Smoke Visible for Miles
CLEVELAND, N.C. — A massive fire at the Daimler Freightliner truck manufacturing plant in Rowan County sent heavy smoke billowing into the sky on Saturday, alarming nearby residents and prompting a multi-county emergency response.
Flames were first spotted inside the Statesville Boulevard facility, with videos shared online showing fire breaking through the roof. The smoke column was visible for miles.
Large-Scale Emergency Response
Officials said 20 agencies from Rowan, Iredell, and Davie counties responded to contain the blaze. All employees evacuated safely, according to Rowan County Emergency Services.
While no workers were injured, firefighters faced challenges inside the plant. One firefighter fell into a small pit in a paint booth but was quickly pulled out by colleagues. Several responders also suffered from heat exhaustion and dehydration, with one firefighter taken to a hospital for monitoring. That firefighter is expected to recover.
“We are grateful for the rapid, unified response from so many partner agencies that ensured this incident was contained and that all occupants and personnel remained safe,” said Kenny Payne, Chief of the Cleveland Community Fire Department. “The strong collaboration between emergency responders and Daimler staff helped limit injuries during a challenging incident.”
Cause Under Investigation
Authorities said the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI) and the Office of the State Fire Marshal are leading the investigation into the fire’s cause. Daimler officials are cooperating fully.
This is not the first fire at the facility. In 2023, a smaller blaze impacted a materials holding area but caused no injuries.
Community Reaction
Residents who live near the plant reported seeing thick smoke fill the sky throughout the day, raising concerns about air quality and potential environmental impacts. Officials have not issued any advisories but are monitoring the situation.
Do you live near the Daimler Freightliner plant in Cleveland and witness the fire or smoke? Share your experience with neighbors at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
