Fire Breaks Out in Sparta, Prompting Immediate Response from Multiple Emergency Agencies

In the small town of Sparta, a business fire broke out on Tuesday night, prompting the immediate response of seven fire departments and multiple emergency agencies. The incident occurred around 9:48 p.m. near Maple Street and E. Averill Street, with reports of smoke and flames coming from a building leading to an evacuation of the premises.

Upon arrival at the scene, Sparta Fire Department (SFD), Alpine Township Fire Department, and Kent City Fire Departments were faced with heavy smoke and flames emanating from the roof. Due to the size of the building, crews from Algoma, Walker, and Rockford Fire Departments were also mobilized to assist in containing the fire.

The SFD determined that the fire originated in a mixing room, resulting in a foul odor and caustic smoke that caused minor eye and breathing irritation. This prompted a response from Kent County Emergency Management and Grand Rapids Fire Department’s Hazardous Materials Team to address the situation. Fortunately, the fire was extinguished quickly, and the smoke dissipated shortly after. However, there were concerns about materials contained within the room escaping into storm drains but fortunately they were contained within the room itself.

The company operating out of the building is currently assisting investigators in determining the cause of