A large Kingston fire at the Kimco Steel yard sent a heavy plume of dark smoke across the city on Thursday morning, drawing a significant response to the industrial property on John Counter Boulevard.
Witness reports and images shared from around Kingston showed flames and smoke rising from the recycling and scrap-metal facility at 1325 John Counter Blvd. during the morning of October 22, 2026.
The reports indicated that fire crews remained at the site for an extended period while they worked to control the blaze and deal with hot spots inside the yard.
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What is known about the Kingston fire
The fire was reported at the Kimco Steel property in Kingston’s industrial area, where the company handles scrap metal, end-of-life vehicles, electronic waste and other recyclable material.
Kimco Steel lists its Kingston operation at 1325 John Counter Blvd. and describes the site as a steel service centre and recycling facility.
Images and eyewitness accounts posted during the morning described a large fire involving material stored in the yard, with smoke visible from multiple parts of the city and from nearby roads.
The exact material involved, the size of the fire and the cause had not been officially confirmed by late morning.
There were also no verified reports available at publication time confirming injuries, evacuations or damage outside the Kimco property.
Smoke visible across Kingston
The fire produced a broad, dark plume that was visible well beyond the immediate industrial area.
Residents reported seeing smoke from downtown Kingston and from roads near the city’s east end, while people working close to the property described flames rising above the facility.
Smoke from fires involving scrap, vehicles, tires or mixed waste can contain irritating or hazardous pollutants, although the health risk depends on the materials burning, the weather and a person’s exposure.
People who can smell smoke or see it entering their homes should close windows and doors, limit outdoor activity and follow any instructions issued by emergency officials or public health authorities.
Previous fire at the same Kingston facility
The October 22 fire occurred at the same Kingston recycling property where a major scrap fire was reported in July 2024.
During that earlier incident, Kingston Fire and Rescue crews responded to several large piles of burning scrap material and used heavy equipment to separate the piles while firefighters extinguished hot spots.
That earlier fire also produced heavy black smoke and kept crews at the scene for several hours.
The previous incident is not evidence of a connection between the two fires, and the cause of Thursday’s blaze remained unknown.
What happens next
Fire officials are expected to assess the site once the active fire and remaining hot spots are fully controlled.
That assessment may determine whether the incident requires a formal fire investigation, environmental monitoring or additional safety measures around the property.
Kingston Fire and Rescue provides emergency response services in the city and maintains public information resources through the City of Kingston.
Residents should avoid the immediate area if emergency vehicles or crews remain on John Counter Boulevard, and drivers should be prepared for possible delays near the industrial park.
More details, including the cause of the fire, the extent of any property damage and whether anyone was hurt, were expected from officials after the response was completed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the Kingston fire happen?
The fire was reported at the Kimco Steel yard at 1325 John Counter Boulevard in Kingston, Ontario.
When did the Kingston fire happen?
The fire was reported during the morning of Thursday, October 22, 2026.
What caused the fire at Kimco Steel?
The cause had not been officially confirmed by late morning on October 22, 2026.
Were there injuries or evacuations?
No verified reports of injuries or evacuations were available at publication time.
What should residents do if they smell smoke?
Residents should close windows and doors, reduce outdoor activity and follow instructions from emergency officials or public health authorities.
Fact-Checked: Key details were checked against Kimco Steel’s official facility information and the City of Kingston’s Fire and Rescue resources, while unconfirmed incident details were reported cautiously.
Disclaimer: Information may change as Kingston Fire and Rescue or other authorities release further details about the incident.