LIBERAL, KAN. — Firefighters responded to reports of a fire at the National Beef Packing Co., plant in Liberal, Kan., on March 20 at about 9:50 p.m.

A National Beef spokesperson said the fire started in a trailer that was parked in the loading dock area and quickly spread to other trailers and part of the loading dock. The plant was operating when the fire was discovered.

“The safety of our employees and others on-site is our top priority “The plant was operating at the time of the fire. Emergency services were contacted, and the plant was immediately evacuated.”

The flames were extinguished at approximately 1:00 a.m. The company confirmed there were no injuries at the plant and production was suspended on March 21 and 22. Officials planned to resume operations after the weekend, on March 25.

“Throughout the operation, emergency responders coordinated closely with plant officials to secure the power supply, keep informed of key building features and potential hazards and provide specialized heavy equipment,” the Liberal Fire Department said. “The area of fire origin has been determined with reasonable certainty,” the department said. “The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.”

The fire department requested assistance with investigating the fire from the Office of the Kansas State Fire Marshal. 

“We are working closely with authorities to determine the cause, assess damage and prepare for restarting production,” National Beef said. “We want to thank the following emergency response agencies for their quick response and support of our employees: Liberal Fire Department, Liberal Police Department, Seward County Emergency Management, Seward County EMS and Liberal/Seward County Emergency Communication Center.”

Officials said a portion of the building was significantly damaged on the exterior and some interior damage around the overhead doors of the loading docks. The trailers and their contents were believed to be a total loss. No damage estimates have been made available.