Historic Susanville Mill Destroyed in Early Morning Fire
Early morning blaze levels historic mill building now housing a local construction components company.
A photo of the fire shared by the Lassen County Sheriff’s Office.
SUSANVILLE — Lassen County deputies responded to reports of a fire at the old mill property on Riverside Drive on Sunday in Susanville. Within minutes, the structure became fully involved in flames. Several agencies joined the response effort to contain the blaze and protect surrounding properties.
The building represented the final remnant of a once extensive lumber mill complex. Fruit Growers Supply Company constructed the facility around 1920 to produce wooden boxes for citrus shipping from Southern California orchards. Sierra Pacific Industries later operated the site until its closure in 2004.
Nobles Construction Components has occupied the building as its company headquarters since 2014. The firm specializes in prefabricated construction materials, including floor cassettes, wall panels, roof panels, and stair systems.
Lassen County Sheriff John McGarva released a statement regarding the incident. “This is a hard loss for Susanville. For many in our community, the old mill was more than just a landmark. It was part of the history and identity of this town.”
The fire from a distance. Credit: Lassen County Sheriff's Office.
No injuries occurred among civilians or first responders. Fire personnel from the Susanville Fire Department and Cal Fire Lassen-Modoc Unit worked alongside law enforcement, public works crews, and LMUD staff during the early morning hours.
Officials urged the public to exercise caution near the site while cleanup continues. Investigators continue to examine the cause of the fire. Anyone with information is urged to contact Lassen County Dispatch at (530) 257-6121.