VIDEO: A massive fire that broke out early Thursday morning destroyed a peanut processing facility in Wilcox County, leaving the building a total loss and threatening the economic stability of this small Georgia community.
The blaze began around 3:30 a.m. at the Doster Peanut Company’s drying field facility on Highway 280, according to Rochelle Fire Chief Wayne McGuinty. The fire consumed approximately 20 semi-trucks loaded with peanuts awaiting processing. As of Thursday evening, the fire remained active and is expected to burn for two to three days, officials said. The fire has been contained but not fully extinguished.
Chief McGuinty said the fire remains under investigation, though officials believe it may have been caused by propane tanks used in the peanut-drying process. The drying field is a critical part of peanut processing where harvested peanuts are stored and dried before further manufacturing. Local business owners expressed concern about the fire’s impact on Rochelle’s economy, particularly heading into the holiday season.
Basha Slater, who owns two shops in downtown Rochelle, said her security camera captured fire trucks rushing to the scene around 3:50 a.m. She said the loss will reverberate throughout the community.
