11/18/2025
About an hour ago, emergency crews responded to a commercial structure fire at 1050 Crestwood Drive, Wright Township, the location of MT Chemical Company LLC, a facility that manufactures and stores specialty industrial materials.
🔥 The fire has since been extinguished, but the incident triggered a major hazmat response due to the nature of the chemicals involved.
🔎 WHAT BURNED
Initial reports of sodium nitrate were incorrect. It’s now confirmed that the fire involved zirconium-nickel alloy powders in various concentrations — fine metal powders that:
Are highly flammable, especially in dust form
Are water-reactive, meaning standard fire suppression methods couldn’t be used
Can pose serious health risks through inhalation, skin contact, or eye exposure
🚑 MEDICAL & HAZMAT RESPONSE
Two patients have been confirmed:
• One experiencing shortness of breath
• One reporting chest pain
A hazard decontamination site was set up at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital
West Hazleton’s Hazmat trailer responded to assist
Reports indicate that individuals were physically covered in chemical powder at the scene — including responders operating within zones flagged by MSDS safety radius guidelines
🚫 SAFETY IMPACT
Even though the fire is out, hazardous materials remain active at the scene and in the environment:
Officials warn of airborne dust, reactive material residue, and limited access to safe extinguishing agents
Nearby residents were advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and avoid the area
The site remains under active monitoring for lingering hazards and cleanup
📍 This incident occurred in the Crestwood Industrial Park, a major commercial zone — raising both public safety and environmental concerns.
📲 Hazleton News 1 is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide confirmed updates as they are released by officials.
