Fire in Apex plant prompts evacuation, road closure

A manufacturing plant in Apex was evacuated Thursday afternoon after a fire that started in a piece of machinery spread into a section of the plant.

No hazardous materials were involved and no injuries were reported in the fire at Tipper Tie, 2000 Lufkin Road.

The business makes food packaging and equipment used in commercial food processing, according to the company’s website.

A spokesperson with the town said all 100 workers evacuated and Lufkin Road was closed between Classic Drive and Ten-Ten Road. The fire broke out about 11 a.m., and emergency responder remained on the scene until 3:30 p.m., the spokesperson said.

Lufkin Middle School is nearby, but authorities said there was no danger to the school.