MOSES LAKE – Basic American Foods continues to assess the situation caused by a fire at their facility just south of Moses Lake on State Route 17.

“BAF is currently assessing the damage to the portion of the facility and working with the local authorities to determine the root cause of the fire. BAF’s priority is and always will be to provide a safe work environment and produce quality products for a fair value to our customers,” said BAF Chief People Officer Peter Vitarisi via an email to the Columbia Basin Herald.

The fire forced an evacuation of the facility, which processes potatoes and lentils into food products, at about 8:30 p.m. Tuesday.

“Plant management took quick action and notified the fire department when it became clear that external fire services were needed. All employees were promptly and safely evacuated with only one employee receiving non-emergency medical attention,” Vitarisi.

The company is concerned for its employees' wellbeing and understands the plant’s importance to the Moses Lake area, he said.

“We are currently assessing the situation with the local fire department ensuring the portion of the facility that was damaged is safe for re-entry and clean up,” Vitarisi said.

R. Hans “Rob” Miller may be reached at [email protected]. For news in the palm of your hand, download the Columbia Basin Herald app – available for iOS and Android devices.