Massive Freightliner Fire Erupts At Cleveland NC Plant, Dozens Of Firefighters Respond | Watch

Firefighters rushed to the Daimler Freightliner facility in Rowan County on Friday night after a blaze broke out just after 8 p.m. at 11550 Statesville Boulevard. Rowan County Emergency Services confirmed the fire was brought under control by 9 p.m., though response teams remained on site overnight to complete overhaul operations. The fire reportedly began when a rack of materials outside the plant ignited, spreading to a modular structure inside the facility. Plant workers were promptly evacuated, and there were no immediate reports of injuries, according to local authorities. Cause of Fire Under Investigation Emergency officials have not yet confirmed what triggered the blaze, with the investigation expected to determine whether it was accidental, electrical, or otherwise. The full extent of the damage remains unclear, though the plant is regarded as one of the key employers in the region. This incident follows a 2018 three-alarm fire at the Freightliner facility in Gastonia, raising questions among residents about fire safety measures and preparedness at the company’s plants. Locals reported seeing heavy smoke and flames from nearby areas, with many voicing concerns about recurring fire-related incidents at Freightliner sites. Rowan County authorities have asked the public to avoid the area as crews continue to secure the site. Officials said further updates would be provided once the cause and scale of the damage are determined. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World. Read more