Fire destroys section of downtown DuQuoin

A huge fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon in downtown DuQuoin and several businesses were consumed.

According to WFCN, the fire broke out near the Home Lumber Company just before 1:30 p.m. It spread rapidly through that facility and burned toward Main Street, consuming three other businesses in a matter of minutes. Shortly after 2 p.m., Croessmann Wholesale Company, BJ’s Garden Inn, and a former auto parts store were all fully involved.

Reports said that the lumber company structure completely collapsed as the fire grew. The five-alarm fire pressed some 30 agencies into service from all across southern Illinois. Firefighters were able to achieve a level of containment after 4 p.m.

A power outage left a portion of downtown DuQuoin in the dark, and several businesses not directly affected by the fire were forced to close. A cooling center was opened, as well, for those fighting the fire and dealing with the heat. There have been unconfirmed reports of some minor injuries, but there were no fatalities.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker released a statement: “My administration is closely monitoring the ongoing fire in Du Quoin's business district. As we learn more, please follow the guidance of local authorities. Our thoughts are with the community tonight as we continue to receive updates on the situation.”

The City of DuQuoin also posted a statement: “In times of tragedy, it is often difficult to find words to express your thoughts. For now, we'll leave it at this- Thank you to our amazing Du Quoin Fire Department and all the surrounding departments that came together to fight this horrible fire. 

Thank you to all the businesses that opened their doors as a cool refuge for weary first responders. Thank you to the individuals, churches, and businesses that donated water, ice, food and supplies.

As the evening progresses, please continue to keep the owners and employees of the businesses affected by this tragic fire in your thoughts and prayers, as well as the fire fighters and first responders who will remain on scene throughout the night.

The face and future of Du Quoin Main Street changed forever today.”

Source and photos from WFCN-Swinford Media Group