Gadsden mayor credits volunteer firefighters after plant fire, warns against social-media rumors

Mayor Craig Ford said a fire at the old Goodyear plant — now occupied by Phoenix Industries and a tenant named Tachyon — was contained thanks to a coordinated response by volunteer fire departments and city crews.

"They saved that plant from burning down," Ford said, praising volunteer firefighters, county commissioners and mutual-aid partners who lined up tankers, created a water basin and pumped water to the roof when city water valves were unavailable.

Ford identified Will Reed (9-1-1 director) and Vance Brown (fire chief) as part of the response leadership and said local mayors and neighboring departments also contributed equipment and personnel. He described the effort as "a team effort."

The mayor also addressed social-media speculation about the cause of the fire, saying some posts alleged arson and that unverified online claims can spread quickly. "Don't believe everything you read on social media, please," Ford said, and encouraged residents to contact the mayor's office, call city phones, or email for verified information. He said he recorded a personal video and offered it to television stations to provide timely updates.

Ford warned that false or premature information can harm recruitment efforts for employers already in discussions with the site and urged patience while officials gather facts.