Fire heavily damages former factory

At 11:21 a.m. today, Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a possible structure fire at 1700 U.S Highway 70 SW in Hickory. On arrival just a few minutes later, firefighters reported heavy fire visible in the area of a loading dock on the side of the building. Personnel responded with two engines, one ladder, one heavy rescue, and two battalion chiefs.  

No injuries were reported. The fire was brought under control at approximately 11:42 a.m. Exact damage estimates are not readily available at this time, although a portion of the building suffered heavy damage.  At this time, the fire is still under investigation.

Long View Fire Department, Catawba County EMS, and Hickory Police also responded to the scene. 

The last unit cleared the scene at 3:11 p.m.