Suspicious device at Peoria ethanol plant prompts one-mile evacuation
Authorities declared a device at the BioUrja ethanol plant a credible threat, leading to evacuations within a one-mile radius and the cancellation of local events.
Police and federal investigators identified a device at the BioUrja ethanol plant in Peoria, Illinois, as a “credible threat” and rendered it safe, though details about the device were not disclosed. The Peoria Chief of Police Brad Dixon said the entire property still requires an exhaustive search and that the area has not yet been declared safe, urging residents within a one-mile radius to evacuate.
Mayor Rita Ali described the response as “all hands on deck,” confirming the device was identified as a bomb. FBI Special Agent Ryan Presley added that FBI personnel, together with local and state police, had determined the suspicious package posed a threat and had been secured.
Congressman Eric Sorensen met evacuees at Peoria Emanuel High School, reminding them to follow evacuation orders. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also urged the public to comply with law-enforcement directions and stay clear of the site.
The incident forced the cancellation of several local events, including a concert by country singer Jon Pardi at the Peoria Civic Center and a holiday gathering at Dozer Park, home of the Peoria Chiefs. OSF HealthCare St. Francis Medical Center said it was taking appropriate precautions and would continue to monitor the situation to ensure safety for patients and staff.