A fire that destroyed most of the Agri Star Meat and Poultry processing plant was accidental. Postville Fire Chief Jeff Bohr says started in the facility’s laundry room early Tuesday morning. As of Wednesday afternoon, Bohr estimated the fire destroyed 75% of the structure. No injuries were reported. 19 fire departments responded, and crews used more than three million gallons of water to fight the blaze. The Allamakee Sheriff’s Office has confirmed no injuries as a fire continues to burn at the Agri Star facility, prompting warnings from county emergency officials and a water conservation request from the city. The Fayette County EMA Tuesday morning issued a smoke advisory in the area, asking vulnerable populations to stay inside and avoid the area. The sheriff’s office also says the smoke plume will be monitored. The smoke could be seen from miles away as of Wednesday evening. Agri Star is the largest employer in Postville. More than 600 workers are without jobs while community members are organizing relief efforts.
