Jim Beam Will Face Fines After Fire Leads to Environmental Issues

The Jim Bean warehouse fire in Versailles that was at first thought to not be an environmental risk created a severe fish kill off in the nearby Kentucky River, therefore the company will now face fines. 

The fire, that was determined to be started by a lightning strike, destroyed the warehouse and over 40,000 barrels were lost. Officials in Woodford County expected the fire to burn itself out, however, the runoff deposited into sections of the Kentucky River and this time, parts reached the larger mouth of the Ohio River.

As of last Wednesday, the plume was passing the Louisville area but no environmental problems have been reported. The plume was 23-miles long.

The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet confirmed the fine and the company could also face penalties from the Department of Fish and Wildlife.