Fire Damages Paper Machine at McKinley Paper Mill in Combined Locks

A fire at McKinley Paper Mill on Monday night damaged a paper machine and part of the facility’s roof, prompting a multi-department emergency response.

The Combined Locks Fire Department and Town of Buchanan Fire and Rescue were dispatched to the mill at 540 Prospect Street at approximately 9:01 p.m. following reports of a dryer fire on Paper Machine 6.

Upon arrival, firefighters found the mill’s internal fire brigade already working to contain the blaze. Responders were informed that the fire had spread to the roof and upper sections surrounding the machine.

Fire crews established a water supply to the building’s standpipe system while the mill’s automatic sprinkler system activated and assisted in suppressing the fire. Additional fire departments were requested after crews confirmed the fire had extended to the roof.

The Kaukauna Fire Department deployed an aerial apparatus to support firefighting operations from above. Crews worked from both the roof and mezzanine levels to contain the fire and extinguish remaining hot spots.

Fire departments from Combined Locks, Buchanan, Little Chute, Kimberly and Kaukauna responded to the incident.

Emergency personnel remained at the scene for approximately three hours. Authorities have not released a damage estimate.

No injuries were reported among mill employees or emergency responders. Kaukauna Ambulance, along with EMS personnel from Combined Locks and Buchanan, provided medical support for firefighters during the response.