State and federal investigators are working to determine the cause of Wednesday’s massive fire in downtown Du Quoin.
Investigators from the Illinois State Fire Marshal’s Office and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are examining the scene. Officials say one person was injured and is recovering.
During a Thursday news conference, Mayor Josh Downs thanked the numerous fire, police and EMS agencies from surrounding communities that responded. Because of the enormous amount of water needed to battle the blaze, departments used water shuttles to bring additional water from near the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds and the city lake.
Downs said it remains unclear whether affected businesses will rebuild, but pledged the city will support property owners and work to ensure the damaged area is eventually redeveloped.
State Fire Marshal officials are advising Du Quoin State Fair visitors to avoid the downtown area because of possible road closures, emergency vehicles and traffic disruptions.
Main Street reopened Thursday afternoon, and all boil water orders associated with the fire have been lifted.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.