The documentary When the Sky Turned Black is set to be released at the end of January and covers the Walmart distribution center fire in Plainfield, Indiana, which occurred on March 16, 2022. According to WISH-TV, the fire caused an estimated $500 million in property damage and was intense enough to be detected by radar systems.
Produced by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) in collaboration with Full Vision Productions, the film features interviews with firefighters involved in the response and highlights the challenges they faced, FOX59 reported. The documentary draws on NFFF’s 2025 report, Inside the Plainfield Mega-Warehouse Fire: Critical Lessons for Firefighters.
WTHR noted that one key factor during the fire was the decision to shut off the warehouse sprinkler system, which initially contained the flames. Shortly afterward, the fire spread rapidly, prompting changes in firefighting tactics recommended in the NFFF report funded by the town of Plainfield.
The documentary is intended as a training resource for fire departments nationwide. WISH-TV reported that Plainfield Fire Territory Chief Brent Anderson said it will be used for firefighter training.
When the Sky Turned Black will be available publicly on the NFFF YouTube channel, with private screenings for Plainfield Fire Territory members and their families on January 27 and 28.
