Lewiston fire forces evacuation of 2,000

LEWISTON – City police and firefighters responded to a fire at the Philips Elmet plant Sunday night that forced the evacuation of around 2,000 people.

Someone from the plant reported the fire at 5:34 p.m. It was reported under control by 8 p.m.

The blaze was first thought to be a chemical fire, but officials later discounted that theory after discovering the fire began in an area of the plant surrounded by duct work and plastic, according to the Lewiston Sun-Journal.

The plant is located along Route 196 on the south side of the city. Approximately 2,000 residents from up to 1/2 mile away from the plant were evacuated, including residents from the Alfred Plourde Parkway to the Lisbon town line.

The plant makes filaments for light bulbs.

Police, fire and a hazardous materials team reported to the scene. It is unclear what started the fire.