DANVERS, Ill. (Gray News) - Investigators are searching for the cause of a massive house explosion in rural McLean County that sent eight people to the hospital, according to Gray affiliate WEEK (25News Now).
Danvers firefighters were dispatched to the 2500 block of Old Peoria Court at approximately 11:50 p.m. Tuesday following reports of a house fire, an explosion, and multiple burn injuries.
First responders arrived to find one home fully engulfed in flames, with the fire actively spreading to nearby vehicles, an RV, and adjacent homes.
Eight victims were transported to area hospitals, with three reported in critical condition. By Wednesday evening, all remaining victims had been either released or transferred to other specialized medical facilities.
According to Danvers Fire Chief Glenn Rosecrans, the primary home was completely destroyed, leaving only its foundation. Radiant heat and flying debris damaged neighboring residences, though a fence largely shielded one adjacent home from worse damage before the fence itself was destroyed.
The fire was brought under control early Wednesday morning, though crews continued to monitor a burning utility pipe in the basement. Utility companies disconnected gas and electric services to the area to ensure safety.
An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the explosion. The State Fire Marshal's Office, including a K9 unit, is leading the probe with assistance from the McLean County Sheriff's Office, the ATF, the Illinois EPA, and NiCor.
Numerous area fire departments, including Bloomington, Normal, and Carlock, provided mutual aid at the scene.
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