SIDNEY — Four fire departments responded to a structure fire at Hexa Americas Inc. Sunday, Nov. 5.

According to Sidney Assistant Fire Chief Eric Barhorst, at 5:16 a.m. on Nov. 5, the Sidney Department of Fire and Emergency Services responded to a call at Hexa Americas Inc., located at 1150 S. Vandemark Road, on a report of a structure fire with an explosion.

Upon arrival, first responders encountered a large three-story industrial building engulfed in heavy smoke. Plant personnel informed the responding crews that a machine inside the building was on fire. Swift action by the firefighters led to a successful containment and quick knockdown of the fire. Fortunately, the main body of fire was isolated to the machine, with no further damage to other machines or the building structure.

The estimated property loss due to the fire is approximately $100,000.

In response to the incident, a box alarm was activated, summoning all off-duty Sidney firefighters, along with assistance from the Anna Fire Department, Lockington Fire Department, a medic unit from Piqua Fire Department, and a medic unit from Port Jefferson Emergency Medical Service. AES Power and Center Point were also called to the scene.

No injuries were sustained by firefighters, police officers, or occupants of the building.

Sidney Police played a critical role in ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants, confirming their evacuation, and managing traffic control in the area. The road was closed for an extended period of time to facilitate firefighting efforts.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Sidney Fire Department’s investigation unit.