Two contractors have died after early morning fire breaks out at Evergreen Packaging

CANTON, N.C. (WLOS) — Two people have died from injuries sustained during an early morning fire in Canton.

In a released statement, Evergreen Packaging mill manager Wally McDonald confirmed "two contractors involved in the tank repairs died as a result of the fire."

He said their families have been notified and "have our deepest sympathy and support during this very difficult time."

An investigation into the cause of the fire that broke out around 5:15 a.m. on Sept. 21 has begun, McDonald said in the release, as staff with the Canton mill cooperate with local police, fire department, and regulatory agencies.

McDonald said the fire occurred in a tank that was being repaired as part of a maintenance outage within the mill.

He said the fire is now out and that there is "no further threat of it spreading or additional damage to infrastructure."

Earlier, authorities had asked residents to avoid the area and take alternative routes.

Additionally, they asked people to not call 911 in reference to the fire unless they were in immediate danger.

According to Haywood County EMS, the fire broke out at around 5:20 a.m. in the number two fiber line inside the tower. Officials told News 13 there was concern over a possible structural collapse.

Fire units from across the region responded to assist.

According to manager McDonald, all "relevant local and state regulatory agencies" have been notified of the fire.

"We appreciate the bravery and support of our local emergency response personnel," McDonald said in an updated statement. "We will share updates and information as appropriate, but wish to respect the privacy and difficult circumstances for the families of the contractors who lost their lives.”

The mill, located on 200 acres inside the town of Canton, employs approximately 1,000 people and is the largest industrial employer in Haywood County. The facility houses four paper and paperboard machines, and according to their website, a variety of liquid packaging board, cupstock and commercial paper are manufactured within the facility.

This is a developing story. Check back at wlos.com for the latest updates.

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