A significant fire broke out at the Peoples Cartage, Inc. warehouse on Camden Avenue in Parkersburg, West Virginia, on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The blaze, which initially started with burning cardboard boxes on Saturday, rekindled and escalated on Sunday, according to emergency responders.
Thick plumes of black smoke were visible for miles, with residents sharing images on social media showing the smoke clouds blocking out the sun in some areas. The volunteer fire department released photos depicting flames consuming the wooden structure and responders at the scene. Officials have urged residents to avoid the area due to the intensity of the fire and potential air quality concerns.
Wood County Emergency Management confirmed that multiple county agencies are responding to the incident, treating it as an all-county fire. All staff members who were inside the building at the time of the fire were safely evacuated. However, officials have stated that the fire has not yet been contained.
Several roads, including Camden Avenue and Rayon Drive, have been closed to traffic to facilitate emergency response efforts. West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey is scheduled to visit the site.
Locals expressed concern about air quality and their safety on social media platforms. "The plumes are beginning to block out the sun in Parkersburg," one resident posted. Another shared videos of the uncontrolled flames and continuous smoke, noting, "Here are some views from nearby, I'm too close for comfort."
The incident has drawn widespread attention on social media, with many users offering prayers and support for the emergency crews working to control the blaze and ensure public safety.