Fire, Hazmat Incident and Explosion at Congers Pharmaceutical Facility

Authorities have lifted evacuation recommendations issued earlier Wednesday following a major fire, hazmat response, and chemical explosion at the Vitane Pharmaceuticals facility on Wells Avenue in Congers. The incident began around 8:05 a.m. when smoke was reported inside the facility at 125 Wells Avenue, prompting a large emergency response. As firefighters and emergency crews worked to assess the situation, hazmat teams from Rockland and Westchester counties were called in to assist.