Firefighters have made significant progress in controlling a large mulch fire in York County, Pennsylvania. The blaze, which started Sunday afternoon (October 19) at the Oldcastle APG Lawn and Garden facility on Old Hanover Road, sent thick smoke billowing into the air. Crews responded to what was initially reported as a brush fire but found a massive pile of mulch engulfed in flames, spreading to several buildings, vehicles, and nearby woods.
According to Local21 News, firefighters from multiple states, including Pennsylvania and Maryland, worked tirelessly for nearly 24 hours to contain the fire. The effort was complicated by strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 47 mph, which fanned the flames. Explosions were heard as hydraulic equipment and machinery burned, and commercial water tankers were brought in to address the strained local water supply.
Fire police closed Old Hanover Road between West Jackson Street and Colonial Valley Road during the incident, but it reopened on Monday (October 20). A Maryland State Police helicopter assisted in monitoring the scene from the air.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The facility, formerly occupied by H&H General Excavating, was acquired by Oldcastle APG in March 2025. This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.