A bomb discovered at an ethanol production facility in Peoria, Illinois, has prompted a mass evacuation of nearby neighbourhoods, with the city's mayor confirming the device poses a credible threat.
Police were investigating a threat to BioUrja Renewables, located near Southwest Washington Street, when the device was found. Authorities then located the bomb at the facility, and it may have been deactivated, according to Peoria Mayor Rita Ali.
Mayor Confirms Credible Threat
“We don’t know if there are other devices,” Ali said. “A device has been identified. We know it’s a credible threat. We know it’s a bomb.”
A bomb disposal team has been called to the scene, and emergency responders evacuated residents within a one-mile radius of the chemical plant until further notice.
Shelters Opened for Evacuees
Officials have opened a shelter at Manual Academy at 811 South Griswold Street in Peoria. For residents in East Peoria, EastSide Centre has been designated as the shelter, according to city officials.
The evacuation remains in effect as authorities continue their investigation into the threat.
