By Jim McKinnon
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

ZELIENOPLE, Pa. — A warehouse fire in Zelienople raged for about four hours, into the predawn hours yesterday, before it was brought under control.

Firefighters from 19 volunteer companies in two counties battled the Butler County blaze, despite the threat of a water shortage, Zelienople Fire Chief Rob Reeb said. Crews remained on the scene well into the morning, tending smoldering embers and flare-ups.

The fire at the LKQ Corp. auto parts warehouse on Halstead Boulevard was reported around 11:30 p.m. Sunday.

Workers who arrived for their shifts at 11:30 p.m. reported there were no signs of fire when they entered; however, when they got to the rear of the building they saw a large fireball and immediately called 911.

About a third of the roof collapsed into the building.

In addition to the water shortage, firefighters were concerned about the presence of solvents and other chemicals in the warehouse.

To augment water supplies, firefighters pumped directly from a nearby creek to fight the fire, Chief Reeb said.

A water conservation order was issued for Zelienople and neighboring communities for several days because of the large amount of water used. Residents and business still will have service, but water pressure may be low, he said.

No injuries were reported. Damage was estimated at about $1 million.

A state police fire marshal is investigating.