ROCK HILL, S.C. --
Crews have contained a massive fire at the former Rock Hill Printing and Finishing Company in Rock Hill, but the flames are still burning. Firefighters expect the flames to continue to smolder for several more days.
Dozens of firefighters worked throughout the night Friday to put out smoke and flames , also known as the Bleachery, on White Street near Dave Lyle Boulevard.
Firefighters said the fire was far from out, but is contained. It started burning around 1 p.m. Friday.
Investigators do not know if anyone was inside, and they cant search because firefighters think it could burn for several more days. The state guard is monitoring the mill for security.
Maxine Adams went door-to-door to alert her neighbors of the fire. I called 911, then I went from house to house to get everyone out on this side, she said.
You could see glass melting while burning. It was one of the weirdest things Ive seen, said Zach Amos, who witnessed the fire. I could feel it where I was standing right back of the house. It was insane, he said.
The fire sent thick smoke into the air near downtown Rock Hill. Witnesses reported they saw it all the way in Chester County.
Firefighters said the tar on the roof is on fire and flames are breaking through the walls, but they dont believe any neighboring buildings are in danger. They said they are slowing getting the fire under control.
So far, no one has been injured in the blaze.
The citys Fourth of July celebration, Red, White & Boom, continued as planned. Visitors are asked to stay on the City Hall side of Dave Lyle Boulevard so as not to hamper the firefighter's efforts to contain the smoke.
According to The Herald in Rock Hill, the Bleachery has been closed for about 10 years, but at one time it was a huge textile mill that employed thousands of workers.
Rock Hill city officials said the vacant building was slated for demolition.
IMAGES: Fire Engulfs Old Bleachery In Rock Hill RAW VIDEO: Chopper 9 Shows Fire Engulfing Bleachery
