Smitty’s Supply Explosion Sparks One-Mile Evacuation in Roseland, Louisiana

A massive explosion erupted at Smitty’s Supply in Roseland, Louisiana, on Friday, August 22, 2025, forcing a mandatory one-mile evacuation around the industrial site. The incident sent thick black smoke into the air for hours, disrupting life in the small town of just over 1,000 residents. Though no injuries were reported, emergency services, including the fire department and environmental agencies, responded immediately as multiple storage tanks caught fire. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation.

What Happened at Smitty’s Supply in Roseland, LA?

The first explosion was reported at 12:53 p.m. at the company’s primary facility in Arcola, near Roseland. Witnesses described seeing repeated fireballs and hearing loud booms as flames spread rapidly across the site. The facility stores over 8.7 million gallons of automotive and industrial lubricants, amplifying the danger.

Local officials quickly declared a one-mile evacuation zone. Among the most impacted was Roseland Elementary School, located just 4,000 feet from the explosion. School buses were deployed to relocate students to the school board’s main office in Amite, three miles away. Residents were directed to take shelter at the Amite Community Center if they had nowhere else to go. U.S. Highway 51 was also temporarily shut down.

Air quality monitors were deployed by state officials to assess potential chemical exposure. However, no detailed report about hazardous materials was made public at the time of reporting. Authorities advised residents to avoid the area and stay indoors if possible.

Who Owns and Operates Smitty’s Supply?

Smitty’s Supply was founded in 1969 by Ray and George Ann Smith as a family business in Louisiana. In 2000, the company was passed on to their four sons, who expanded it into a large-scale operation with over 450 employees.

The company manufactures and distributes a wide variety of automotive and industrial fluids including motor oil, power steering fluid, antifreeze, and brake fluid. Its main facility in Arcola is a key logistics hub, connected by three railroad spurs and supported by large-capacity storage tanks. In addition to the Roseland facility, Smitty’s Supply operates locations in Hammond, Indiana; Jasper, Texas; and Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Has Smitty’s Supply Had Safety Issues Before?

The explosion has brought renewed scrutiny to Smitty’s operational safety history. In past years, the facility was involved in at least two OSHA-reported incidents. In one case, a fatal accident occurred involving an employee. In another, fines were levied for non-compliance with safety regulations.

Although no official connection has been made between those incidents and the recent explosion, it highlights the critical importance of industrial safety in high-risk environments.

Why This Explosion Matters for Roseland and Beyond

This event underscores broader concerns about industrial safety in small-town America. Roseland residents, many of whom live in close proximity to the facility, were suddenly displaced due to a hazardous event without warning.

Key issues include:

• Public safety and preparedness: The community had little time to respond.

• Environmental impact: Residue from the explosion landed on nearby homes and properties, sparking concerns about air and soil contamination.

• Transparency and accountability: The public still awaits a full explanation of what caused the explosion and what chemicals were released into the environment.

Emergency Response and Next Steps

As of now, the fire has been contained, and officials are working to determine the cause of the explosion. Investigations are ongoing, involving local authorities, the state fire marshal, and environmental regulators.

The incident remains a stark reminder of the potential dangers of storing large quantities of flammable material in populated areas and the need for robust safety protocols and quick emergency response systems.

For Your Information (FAQs):

What is Smitty’s Supply known for?
Smitty’s Supply is a major manufacturer and distributor of automotive and industrial lubricants including motor oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, and more.

Where did the explosion happen?
The explosion occurred at Smitty’s main facility in Arcola, on the northern edge of Roseland, Louisiana.

Was anyone hurt in the explosion?
As of now, no injuries have been reported. Evacuations were swift, and emergency protocols were followed.

What caused the explosion at Smitty’s Supply?
The cause has not been confirmed. Investigators are currently examining the site to determine what triggered the explosion.

Is the air safe to breathe in Roseland after the explosion?
Air quality monitors were deployed, but no specific chemical reports have been released. Residents were advised to stay away from the area.

Has Smitty’s Supply had other safety issues?
Yes, past safety incidents include a fatal accident and OSHA violations, though these are not confirmed to be related to this explosion.