Fire tears through lobster processing plant in Wallace, N.S.

A fire devasted a plant in Wallace, N.S.

A fire tore through the Aquashell lobster processing plant – a major employer in Wallace, N.S. – on Monday morning.

Fire crews battled the blaze at the Northumberland Shore facility, which had roughly 50 people working in it at the time. There were no reported injuries.

The fire chief told CTV News Atlantic the blaze was like a firestorm due to the high winds. Multiple vehicles were burned and nearby homes had to be evacuated.

“The Aquashell plant has been a mainstay of the economy of north shore area of Cumberland County for decades,” said Rod Gilroy, mayor of Cumberland County, in a written statement. “To lose a business and to lose these jobs is truly heartbreaking for all, particularly at this time of year.

“We have asked the Cumberland Business Connector to reach out to the company to offer its support to the company and employees in the days ahead.”

Roughly 100 employees at the facility are now out of work.

The fire is currently under investigation.

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