From Dailymail · · 1m 20s
Panic as active bomb forces urgent evacuation of Illinois city
Active bomb at Illinois ethanol plant triggers emergency evacuation with safety concerns.
In brief
Active bomb at Illinois ethanol plant triggers emergency evacuation with safety concerns. Peoria, Illinois officials confirm an active bomb at a BioUrja Renewables plant forced urgent evacuation with no guarantee of safety. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Active bomb found
An active bomb was discovered at a BioUrja Renewables ethanol plant in Peoria, Illinois.
“It is real. This is a real thing. We know that it is a real threat. We know it is a bomb.”
Urgent evacuation ordered
Peoria Mayor Rita Ali confirmed the bomb threat and called it a 'real threat' urging immediate evacuation.
“We know that it is a real threat. We know it is a bomb.”
Safety concerns
Congressman Eric Sorensen warned residents that city safety could not be guaranteed.
“You need to stay safe because we cannot guarantee the safety of the city of Peoria.”
State support
State Senator David Koehler urged immediate evacuation from the 1-mile radius.
“Get out of the area tonight. We'll see what comes tomorrow but get out of the area tonight.”
Evacuation zone
The Illinois River and bridges were shut down for the 1-mile evacuation zone.
“The Illinois River was also shut down while the mayor urged people to leave the 1-mile evacuation zone.”
Local officials
City officials urged residents to treat the bomb threat as legitimate and serious.
“As an elected official, serving on the Peoria City Council, I am telling you that this IS credible!! This is not the time for nonsense.”
Emergency response
FBI, US Coast Guard, and Homeland Security arrived to assist with the bomb threat.
“I am actively monitoring the bomb threat in Peoria, and I have directed the Illinois State Police to coordinate with local authorities.”
Evacuation status
Evacuations would stay in effect until at least 9am Saturday.
“A statement from the city of East Peoria claimed that evacuations would stay in effect until at least 9am Saturday.”
Infrastructure impact
Interstate 74 was shut down in both directions through the city.
“We are assisting Peoria PD with this threat. Please stay away from downtown Peoria and the riverfront area of East Peoria. I-74 is shutdown both ways through the city of Peoria.”
Business impact
Multiple local businesses closed down in response to the emergency.
“Multiple local businesses closed down in response to the emergency.”
The key point
Peoria, Illinois officials confirm an active bomb at a BioUrja Renewables plant forced urgent evacuation with no guarantee of safety.
