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Wash. Public Works Facility Lost in Fire

The City of Toppenish (Wash.) Public Works Building caught fire last week, leading to the loss of six city vehicles and various equipment.

by Staff
August 29, 2017
Wash. Public Works Facility Lost in Fire

Photo via Pixabay

1 min to read


The City of Toppenish, Wash., is investigating a fire that took place at the city’s Public Works building last week.

According to KIMA Action News, an employee was cleaning out a paint gun using thinner and paint cleaner, which caused a reaction. More than $1 million in damage was caused, including the loss of six city vehicles, a forklift, generators, air compressors, and three employee vehicles. No serious injuries were reported.

The facility, which dates back to 1904, did not have a sprinkler system and did not require upgrades for a system because it was owned by the city, reports the Yakima Herald-Republic. City officials are working on a more detailed investigation of the fire.

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