Tyson officials: Welding spark likely caused fire at SW Kan. plant

GARDEN CITY, Kan. (AP) — Tyson officials say a spark from welding during maintenance is the likely cause of a fire that damaged the company’s plant in Holcomb.

Smoke rising from the Tyson plant fire early Sunday photo courtesy Shrimplin Photography

Tyson representatives met Wednesday with state and other government officials to discuss Friday night’s fire, which caused extensive damage. No one was injured.

The company reaffirmed its commitment to rebuild the plant and reopen it as quickly as possible. Company officials said the fire damaged a small area but affected critical operating systems.

The company’s president and CEO, Noel White, and Steve Stouffer, president of Tyson Fresh Meats, told officials work will begin immediately on structural damage. Other repairs, particularly electrical, will likely take more time. The company is currently completing a full assessment of the plant with electrical and structural engineers.