A massive fire swept through downtown Du Quoin Wednesday afternoon, destroying several businesses and drawing more than 30 fire departments and emergency agencies to the scene. The fire began before 1:30 p.m. in the area of Home Lumber Co. and quickly spread throughout the lumber supply business. As firefighters battled the blaze, flames spread north to businesses along West Main Street.
Within minutes, BJ’s Garden Inn, Croessmann Wholesale Co. and a vacant auto parts store were reported fully engulfed. The Home Lumber building eventually collapsed. By around 4 p.m., responding agencies had gained control of the fire and prevented it from spreading to additional structures.
More than 30 agencies provided mutual aid, including the Wayne City and McLeansboro Fire Departments. A MABAS Mobile Support Unit from Southern Illinois Airport and Divisional Task Forces 68 and 47 also assisted with water supply operations.
No fatalities had been reported as of Wednesday evening, and there was no confirmation of serious injuries. Several people in the area were reportedly treated for minor issues, including smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion.
The fire also caused power outages in portions of downtown Du Quoin, including a nearby high-rise residential building. City Hall was opened as an emergency location for those needing relief from the heat.
Multiple emergency agencies remained at the scene Wednesday evening.