Overview
- A massive fire on April 7 destroyed the more than 1 million‑square‑foot Kimberly‑Clark distribution center and about $500 million in paper products.
- Demolition began this week with crews cutting away exterior concrete wall sections in extended daily shifts that the city says will last roughly two weeks.
- Authorities are treating the blaze as suspected arson and a 29‑year‑old suspect has pleaded not guilty to aggravated arson and faces prosecution.
- Neighbors continue to report smoldering, drifting smoke and worsening air quality that has aggravated asthma and prompted some temporary relocations.
- City officials say the property owner will fund and coordinate the cleanup, and officials warn noise and schedules may change as investigators and contractors complete remediation and the legal case proceeds.