Massive fire rages at Pepsi-Co factory in New Jersey; 2 firefighters injured

PISCATAWAY, New Jersey (WABC) — Two firefighters were injured battling a massive blaze raging at a Pepsi-Co factory in Piscataway, New Jersey.

According to police, the fire started just after 6:30 p.m. and spread to a fifth alarm.

Initial reports say multiple propane tanks may have exploded causing the flames to grow.

Piscataway Mayor Brian Wahler tells Eyewitness News reporter Josh Einiger that two firefighters were injured battling the flames. One suffered heat exhaustion while the other injured their shoulder, but the injuries were not considered serious.

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Police say there has been no sign of a potential collapse of the structure.

Volunteers with the Red Cross were on the scene providing services to first responders working to put out the fire.

Pepsi-Co released a statement late Tuesday:

“On Tuesday evening, a fire started outside of the Pepsi plant and warehouse in Piscataway, NJ. Details of how the fire started will be investigated. First responders are on-site working to ensure the fire is controlled and quickly put out. All employees and people who were in the facility have been evacuated with no injuries.”

Piscataway Township urged residents to avoid several nearby streets to allow first responders to access the area. Authorities followed that up by shutting down additional streets.

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