The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office is currently investigating a fire that erupted near the Port of Oakland earlier this month. The fire, which broke out at Schnitzer Steel’s Oakland facility on August 9 and 10, led to significant smoke emission, prompting air quality advisories in the East Bay region.
The fire originated in a large pile of scrap metal shortly after 5:30 p.m. on August 9. Firefighters were able to contain it to a single pile of debris, and by 9 p.m., the fire was officially under control. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Despite the swift response from fire crews, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. In the aftermath of the fire, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued two violation notices to Schnitzer Steel.
This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and protocols in industrial and port areas. It serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with scrap metal facilities and the need for comprehensive fire prevention strategies. It also highlights the crucial role of thorough investigations in determining the cause of such incidents and preventing future occurrences.