A massive fire tore through a one-million-square-foot distribution center in Ontario early last Tuesday, destroying the facility and everything inside. Authorities say the blaze was intentionally set by a worker who is now facing multiple felony charges.
Chamel Abdulkarim, 29, of Highland, was arrested the same day on suspicion of arson. He is currently being held without bail at the West Valley Detention Center and is expected to appear in Rancho Cucamonga Superior Court. Jail records show he could face charges including arson of an inhabited structure and arson causing property damage.
According to investigators, Abdulkarim was one of about 20 employees inside the warehouse when the fire started. At first, coworkers feared he might have been trapped in the flames. That concern quickly shifted after a video circulated online appearing to show a man—believed to be Abdulkarim—lighting stacks of toilet paper on fire while complaining about low wages.
Ontario police confirmed they are aware of the video and said it is part of the ongoing investigation.
The warehouse was operated by NFI Industries on behalf of Kimberly-Clark. A spokesperson for NFI confirmed Abdulkarim was an employee and said the company is cooperating fully with authorities. Officials also noted that all workers were safely accounted for and no injuries were reported.
Employees who escaped the building described a chaotic scene as alarms sounded and flames rapidly spread. Some initially gathered behind the warehouse before firefighters instructed them to move farther away for safety. Witnesses reported seeing fire spread to nearby semi-truck trailers parked at loading docks, with explosions heard from inside the structure.
By the time crews gained control, the damage was extensive. Fire officials said the roof collapsed during the blaze, disabling the building’s sprinkler system and leaving the structure a total loss.
Kimberly-Clark confirmed that none of its personnel were inside at the time and that all workers were safely evacuated. The company has since activated emergency response plans, including redirecting shipments and securing alternative warehouse space to minimize disruption to customers.
Local officials also acknowledged the potential impact on employees. San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman said the county is prepared to assist displaced workers with job placement and training resources.
For now, many of the warehouse employees are left waiting for answers about their future, after losing their workplace in a matter of hours.
