SPRINGDALE, ARK. – Tyson Foods Inc. and local fire department officials confirmed reports of a fire at the company’s pork processing plant in Madison, Neb. Firefighters responded to reports of a fire on April 23 at approximately 9:15 a.m.

Liz Croston, a Tyson spokesperson, said the cause of the incident is being investigated by plant officials.

"The plant will have limited operations the remainder of this week while we fully assess the damage and begin repairs," Croston said in an updated statementon April 24. "We will ensure our full-time, active team members are taken care of as we gradually resume production. During this time we are diverting livestock normally received at our Madison plant to other Tyson Foods pork facilities and do not expect disruption in our ability to meet our customer needs."

According to media reports, several area fire departments responded to reports of smoke billowing from the plant. Two employees were injured in the fire but were treated at a local hospital and released. The plant employs about 1,500 workers.

“We want to thank the local fire department for their quick response,” Croston added.

One of those firefighters was Tim Wragge, fire chief with Norfolk Fire and Rescue.   

“This fire was in Madison Fire and Rescue’s response jurisdiction,” he said. “We provided mutual aid along with other departments from the area. I was present on scene but do not have information on what caused the fire.”

Reports said the fire was brought under control and put out by 2 p.m.