Massive Blaze Engulfs Tatum Brothers Sawmill in Lawtey, Florida; Fire Crews Battle Intense Fire as Authorities Urge Evacuations and Safety Precautions for Nearby Residents

LAWTEY, FL (April 14, 2025) — Fire crews are currently engaged in a fierce battle against a massive blaze that has engulfed the Tatum Brothers Sawmill in Lawtey, Florida. The fire, which broke out early this morning, has prompted an urgent response from multiple fire departments as they work tirelessly to contain the flames and prevent further damage.

According to reports from the Bradford County Fire Rescue (BCFR), firefighters arrived at the scene located at 22000 block of NW County Road 200A shortly after the fire was first reported. Upon arrival, the situation was immediately assessed as dire, with large sections of the sawmill structure consumed by flames, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky visible for miles.

The scale of the fire has caused significant concern, not only for the safety of the responders but also for the nearby residential and commercial properties. Authorities have advised local residents to stay clear of the area and avoid breathing in the heavy smoke, which has been drifting across neighboring roads and farmland.

Firefighting Efforts Underway

At the time of the initial reports, BCFR confirmed that multiple units from surrounding fire districts have been called in to assist in the firefighting efforts. Despite their best efforts, the fire’s intensity continues to challenge even the most experienced responders.

“We are dealing with a large and fast-spreading fire that’s consuming a significant part of the sawmill. Our primary focus is to control the flames and prevent them from spreading further, especially with the hazardous materials that may be present at the facility,” said a BCFR spokesperson.

While the fire has caused extensive damage to the building, authorities have not yet confirmed whether there are any injuries or fatalities. Emergency medical teams are on standby, but as of now, there have been no reports of people trapped or injured within the structure. It is still unclear how the fire started, and investigators are on the scene working to determine its origin.

Local Impact and Evacuation Efforts

The sawmill, a prominent local business, has been a fixture in Lawtey for many years, and its closure, even temporarily, may have a significant impact on the local economy. However, the most pressing concern is the safety of those nearby.

Lawtey residents who live in close proximity to the mill have been urged to evacuate as a precautionary measure. Authorities have set up a perimeter around the area to ensure that no one is in harm’s way. The fire’s proximity to a major roadway has also caused traffic disruptions, with nearby lanes of County Road 200A being shut down for safety reasons.

Local law enforcement, including the Bradford County Sheriff’s Office, has been assisting in the evacuation process, ensuring that the surrounding area remains secure while fire crews work to contain the flames.

Ongoing Investigation

As firefighters continue to battle the blaze, investigators are beginning to assess the scene in preparation for determining the cause of the fire. The sawmill, which processes wood and timber, contains large quantities of materials that could be highly flammable, contributing to the fire’s rapid spread. The combination of industrial equipment and flammable wood products poses an additional challenge for the firefighting teams.

Officials have not yet provided a timeline for when the fire will be fully contained, but they continue to assure the public that they are working diligently to control the situation. In the meantime, local residents are advised to stay informed through official channels for updates and to avoid the area.

Community Support and Response

Community members and local businesses have begun to offer their support to the first responders. Volunteers have been seen bringing bottled water and other essential supplies to assist the firefighters during their efforts.

As the fire continues to rage, the efforts of the first responders remain heroic, with local residents expressing gratitude for their bravery and determination. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

The Tatum Brothers Sawmill’s management has not yet issued a statement, and it is uncertain when or how the business will recover from the damage caused by the fire. However, the immediate concern remains on ensuring the safety of all individuals involved and bringing the situation to a close.

For now, the firefighting operation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they work to contain the blaze.