Massive transfer station fire burns for hours in Stamford
Officials said the heat and volume of debris made the fire difficult to extinguish, requiring extensive overhaul and rotations of fire companies through afternoon heat and thunderstorms.
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A large fire at the Stamford Transfer Station on Harbor View Avenue burned for more than nine hours Wednesday, according to fire officials. Crews were dispatched around 2:48 p.m. after callers reported heavy black smoke and flames coming from the facility.
Fire crews said they arrived to find heavy smoke on all sides of the building and flames in a rear corner, with trash piles more than 8 feet high burning intensely. Officials said the heat and volume of debris made the fire difficult to extinguish, requiring extensive overhaul and rotations of fire companies through afternoon heat and thunderstorms.
According to the fire department, one engine company remained on scene past midnight with Public Works personnel to move debris and reach smoldering hot spots. Nine engine companies, two ladder trucks, a rescue company, EMS supervisors and command staff operated throughout the incident.
Public Works used heavy equipment to separate burning trash and removed trucks stored beneath the work area, officials said. EMS supervisors reported evaluating two firefighters and one Public Works employee. One firefighter with a knee injury was treated and released from Stamford Hospital.
Fire officials said smoke drifted across parts of downtown Stamford for several hours. The transfer station is closed Wednesday.
The fire marshal’s office is assessing structural damage, and the cause remains under investigation. Environmental agencies were notified due to runoff concerns.
