MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Macomb County officials are working to determine the cause of a large building fire that triggered a shelter-in-place order on Tuesday.
The fire started on April 22, 2025, at RCO Engineering on 12 Mile between Hayes Road and Groesbeck Highway.
It raised so much concern than nearby neighborhoods were advised to shelter in place due to the risk of chemicals in the smoke.
Previous coverage: Roseville air quality deemed safe as shelter-in-place order ends
Macomb County Emergency Director Brandon Lewis said that they were able to use special technology to test the air quality before lifting the order.
“We did send a hazmat team out, and we conducted air quality sampling. We never picked up anything of concern in the air," said Lewis.
“They actually have specialized equipment that can detect substances of concern in the air,” he continued. “So they placed one near the scene of the fire, they placed one a couple thousand feet down wind from the fire and then a little further than that.”
Once the results were in, Lewis said the shelter-in-place order was lifted.
“At no point did the hazmat team ever detect a substance of concern in the air,” Lewis said.
The cause of the fire still remains under investigation.
Background --> Massive fire in Roseville: What we know so far
Statement from the company
RCO Engineering, the company whose building caught fire, released the following statement:
“Earlier today, RCO Engineering experienced an accidental industrial fire at one of its 13 facilities. We are relieved to report that there were no injuries, and all employees are safe and accounted for.
The fire was quickly addressed thanks to the prompt and professional response of local Roseville, Eastpointe, Warren, St. Clair Shores, Clinton Township, Fraser and Mt. Clemens fire departments and emergency responders, to whom we extend our sincere thanks and appreciation. Their swift action ensured the fire was 100% contained and prevented any further risk to our team or facilities.
We want to reassure our partners and stakeholders that there is no impact to the rest of the RCO Engineering business operations or to our customers. RCO Engineering remains operational, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and service.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident. Safety remains our top priority, and we will take all necessary steps to prevent future occurrences."
