Massive Blaze Engulfs J&K Salvage Yard in York

Firefighters battle intense fire at controversial recycling facility

Feb. 25, 2026 at 7:48pm

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Firefighters are responding to a massive two-alarm blaze at the J&K Salvage yard in York, Pennsylvania. The fire has sent a large plume of black smoke into the sky and explosions have been reported from the scene. The salvage yard has a history of environmental violations and legal issues with local authorities.

Why it matters

The J&K Salvage yard has been a source of ongoing controversy in the York community due to its environmental violations and disputes with local authorities. This fire raises concerns about public safety and the potential for further environmental damage from the blaze.

The details

Firefighters were first called to the J&K Salvage yard, located at 1099 Kings Mill Road in Spring Garden Township, around 2:03 pm on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. A second alarm was called around 2:30 pm as the fire grew in intensity. The York County Hazardous Materials Team was also dispatched to the scene for a report of burning oil drums. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area.

  • Firefighters were first called to the scene around 2:03 pm on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
  • A second alarm was called around 2:30 pm as the fire grew in intensity.

The players

J&K Salvage

A recycling and salvage yard in York, Pennsylvania that has faced numerous environmental violations and legal issues with local authorities in recent years.

Joe Darrah

The owner of J&K Salvage, who has denied allegations of environmental violations in the past.

Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper

An organization that sued J&K Salvage in 2025 for discharging pollutants into the Codorus Creek.

Spring Garden Township

The local township that sued J&K Salvage in 2021 over its industrial shredder spewing metal fragments into neighboring areas.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold companies like J&K Salvage accountable for their environmental violations and the harm they cause to our community.”

— Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper

What’s next

Authorities will investigate the cause of the fire and assess any potential environmental damage from the blaze. J&K Salvage may face further legal action and scrutiny from local officials.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges York faces in balancing economic development and environmental protection, especially when it comes to controversial industrial facilities like salvage yards. It underscores the need for stronger oversight and enforcement to ensure companies operate responsibly and minimize harm to the community.