South Carolina Factory Fire Restarts Week Later

July 14, 2009

South Carolina authorities say a former mill factory known as The Bleachery caught fire in a new location, more than a week after it began burning.

Rock Hill Fire Chief Benny Funderburke said more than 50 firefighters took part in efforts to control the blaze at the Rock Hill Printer and finshing company. The shuttered mill caught fire July 3 with flames that were so intense the smoke could be seen from a county away.

Funderburke said firefighters had the blaze contained within firewalls and hoped the fire would diminsh soon.

The mill used to employ thousands but has been closed for about 10 years. Cty officials have been working on demolishing the plant and turning the complex that covers more than a city block into retail space.