Weeks after blaze, Ontario warehouse still smoking

A devastating fire at a 1.2 million square-foot Kimberly-Clark warehouse in Ontario, which began on April 7, has resulted in an estimated $600 million in damages. The blaze, allegedly set by an arson suspect, quickly consumed paper products including well-known brands. Despite the efforts of the Ontario Fire Department, the fire burned for hours.

Weeks after the incident, the warehouse site continues to smolder, with fire officials still receiving calls about potential fire activity. Residents nearby report daily occurrences of ash and smoke entering their properties, leading to concerns about health impacts. Demolition is slated to commence on May 11, 2026, to address the remaining smoldering material and ensure the situation is fully extinguished.

The suspect, Chamel Abdulrakim, an employee of a third-party distributor, was arrested during the firefight. He faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated arson. Prosecutors allege Abdulrakim bragged about the fire, comparing himself to a notorious criminal. The total damages are estimated at $600 million, with $500 million attributed to the destroyed paper products.